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
Scale
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.