Golden-Baked Savory Hand Pies Recipe

Looking for a tasty and portable snack or meal option? These golden-baked savory hand pies are the perfect solution. With a buttery, flaky crust and a deliciously seasoned filling, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you opt for a classic meat filling or go for a vegetarian twist, these hand pies are versatile, satisfying, and easy to make.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken or beef (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled sausage (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach or kale
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (like thyme, oregano, or rosemary)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the Dough:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Incorporate Butter: Add the cold butter cubes. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Water: Gradually add the ice water, mixing just until the dough begins to come together. Adjust the water as needed.
4. Chill Dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape each into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the chicken or beef, cheese, onions, bell peppers, sausage, spinach, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Assemble the Hand Pies:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disc to about 1/8-inch thickness.
3. Cut Dough Circles: Using a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter), cut out circles of dough.
4. Add Filling: Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.
5. Seal Pies: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal and crimp with a fork.
6. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Place the sealed hand pies on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake:

1. Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the hand pies for a golden, shiny finish.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the hand pies are golden brown and the filling is heated through.

Cool and Serve:

1. Cool Slightly: Allow the hand pies to cool slightly before serving.
2. Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips

• Filling Variations: Experiment with different fillings like mushrooms, caramelized onions, or various cheeses.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add more vegetables or beans for a satisfying vegetarian version.
• Make-Ahead: These hand pies can be frozen before baking. To do so, freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Calories: 300 per pie
Servings: 10 pies

These hand pies are a delicious and convenient option for any meal. Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or a simple dinner, they offer a warm and comforting bite every time. Enjoy!