If you are craving a snack that is irresistibly tasty and perfect for sharing, look no further than these Beef and Cheese Hand Pies: A Delicious Recipe for Savory Snacks Recipe. This dish combines the rich, comforting taste of seasoned beef with gooey melted cheese, all wrapped in a golden, flaky crust that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving these at a casual get-together, packing them for lunch, or simply treating yourself to a delightful bite, these hand pies deliver on flavor, texture, and satisfaction like no other savory snack can.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for these Beef and Cheese Hand Pies is straightforward but essential to capturing the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role, from the hearty ground beef to the melty cheese and flaky pie dough that envelopes it all.
- Ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a juicy, flavorful filling without excess grease.
- Shredded cheese: Use a good melting cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for that gooey, indulgent center.
- Pie crust dough: Store-bought or homemade dough will create a buttery, flaky shell that holds everything together beautifully.
- Onion: Finely chopped to add sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses an aromatic punch that enhances the savory profile.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder for subtle warmth and complexity.
- Egg wash: A beaten egg brushed on the crust gives the pies a glossy, inviting finish.
How to Make Beef and Cheese Hand Pies: A Delicious Recipe for Savory Snacks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat, then stir in chopped onions and minced garlic until softened and fragrant. Add your seasonings—salt, pepper, and a hint of smoked paprika or chili powder—to bring extra flavor to the mix. Remove the filling from heat and let it cool slightly before adding the shredded cheese.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pie crust dough into a large, thin sheet. Use a round cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles about 4-5 inches in diameter. These will become the individual hand pies, so aim for consistent sizes to ensure even baking.
Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies
Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese filling onto the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, or the pies might burst during baking. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal. This not only locks in the delicious filling but adds a pretty edge to your pies.
Step 4: Apply Egg Wash and Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay the sealed hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each pie generously with egg wash to achieve a golden-brown, shiny crust. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the crust is crisp and beautifully browned.
How to Serve Beef and Cheese Hand Pies: A Delicious Recipe for Savory Snacks Recipe
Garnishes
These hand pies are fantastic on their own, but a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and fresh flavor. You can also serve them with a side of sour cream or a tangy dipping sauce such as salsa or a creamy horseradish dip for extra zing.
Side Dishes
Pair your hand pies with light, refreshing sides to balance the richness. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even some pickled cucumbers make excellent companions that keep the meal feeling well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving these pies in a rustic wooden basket lined with a colorful cloth for an inviting look at casual gatherings. You could also cut them into smaller bite-sized pieces to make them finger-friendly appetizers that disappear fast at parties. Another fun idea is to layer them on a serving platter with assorted dips for a casual tapas-style snack experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Beef and Cheese Hand Pies, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the crust from getting soggy and the filling tasting fresh, making for an easy next-day snack or meal.
Freezing
You can freeze these pies either before or after baking. To freeze pre-baked pies, assemble them and lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. Baked pies should also be cooled completely before freezing. They will keep well for up to 2 months, perfect for preparing snacks ahead of time.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftover or frozen Beef and Cheese Hand Pies in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crisp again, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional here, you can swap in ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage depending on your preference or dietary needs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
What cheeses work best for these hand pies?
Melting cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend offer great flavor and texture. For a sharper taste, aged cheddar or gouda are excellent choices that balance the savory beef filling.
Is it possible to make these pies vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of seasoned veggies. Combine with cheese or a dairy-free alternative to keep that delicious melty texture.
Can I prepare these hand pies in advance for a party?
Definitely. You can assemble the pies, then refrigerate or freeze them until ready to bake. This makes entertaining stress-free and ensures fresh, warm snacks for your guests.
Do I need any special equipment to make these hand pies?
Not at all! Basic kitchen tools like a skillet, rolling pin, and baking sheet are all you need. If you don’t have a cutter, you can use a small bowl or plate to shape your dough circles.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend these Beef and Cheese Hand Pies: A Delicious Recipe for Savory Snacks Recipe enough—they are truly a crowd-pleaser with endless possibilities for customization. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. So go ahead, bake up a batch, share with loved ones, and enjoy every warm, cheesy bite. Happy cooking!
Print
Beef and Cheese Hand Pies: A Delicious Recipe for Savory Snacks Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 3 hand pies
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Beef and Cheese Hand Pies are savory, flaky pastries filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, perfect as a hearty appetizer, main dish, or snack. These hand pies combine rich, flavorful beef with gooey cheese wrapped in a buttery crust, offering a comforting and versatile treat suitable for gatherings, picnics, or quick meals.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or your choice)
- 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
For the Dough
- 1 sheet refrigerated pie crust or homemade pie dough
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula. If using, add diced onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños, sautéing until soft. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Assemble the Hand Pies: Roll out the pie crust on a floured surface and cut into circles about 4 to 5 inches in diameter. Spoon a generous amount of the beef filling in the center of each circle, then sprinkle with shredded cheese on top.
- Seal the Pies: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together and crimp with a fork to seal completely to avoid leaking during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg with water and brush the mixture over the tops of the hand pies. This helps achieve a golden, shiny crust.
- Bake: Place the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Let the pies cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. These hand pies are great warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add more jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for alternatives.
- These pies freeze well; wrap individually and reheat in the oven for a quick snack.
- To avoid soggy bottoms, bake on a parchment-lined tray with some space between pies for airflow.
- Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the filling for added flavor.
