Savory Hand Pies: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 10 People

Savory hand pies are delightful pockets of joy filled with delicious ingredients wrapped in a flaky crust. These small, portable pastries are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a quick lunch, or simply satisfying a snack craving. The amazing blend of flavors and textures in savory hand pies is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. They offer a delightful way to enjoy your favorite fillings while being easy to make and customize.
Imagine biting into a warm, flaky pastry with savory meat, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices bursting from within. Each hand pie is a mini meal, making them perfect for parties, picnics, or a quick family dinner. The best part? They can be made ahead of time and reheated when needed, which makes them a convenient addition to your culinary repertoire.
In this ultimate guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about making incredible savory hand pies from scratch. We’ll explore the essential ingredients, step-by-step preparation, cooking times, and even tips on how to serve them. By the end, you’ll be ready to enjoy these handheld wonders that are bound to become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Savory hand pies are more than just food; they are an experience that brings warmth and comfort to gatherings. Here’s why you will love making these hand pies:
1. Endless Filling Options: You can customize hand pies with various fillings like meat, vegetables, or cheese, catering to different palates.
2. Great for Any Occasion: From casual gatherings to formal events, savory hand pies are suitable for every scenario.
3. Freezer-Friendly: Make a large batch and freeze them for quick meals later. Just pop them in the oven, and enjoy!
4. Kid-Friendly: Smaller portions are perfect for little hands and picky eaters, making meal prep a breeze.
5. Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown crust and delightful filling make these pies visually appealing, sure to impress your guests.
6. Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, even novice cooks can succeed.
With these advantages, it’s no wonder savory hand pies are a hit among food lovers of all ages!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing savory hand pies takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes in total, perfect for anyone looking to whip up something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the time commitment:
– Preparation Time: 30 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
– Cooling Time: 10-15 minutes
These timeframes should help you plan effectively, ensuring your hand pies are ready when you need them!

Ingredients

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 6–8 tablespoons ice water
– 1 pound ground meat (chicken, beef, or turkey)
– 1 cup diced vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, onions, carrots)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating incredible savory hand pies involves a few straightforward steps. Here’s how to do it:
1. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until a dough forms.

2. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps to make it easier to roll out and keep its shape during baking.

3. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned. Add diced vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

4. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough.

5. Fill the Pies: Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as it will prevent sealing.

6. Seal the Pies: Fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

7. Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

8. Egg Wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the tops of the hand pies for a beautiful golden color when baked.

9. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

10. Cool and Serve: Allow the hand pies to cool for 10-15 minutes on a wire rack before serving.
These steps will ensure your savory hand pies come out perfectly every time!

How to Serve

To make your savory hand pies even more enjoyable, consider the following serving suggestions:
1. Accompany with Dips: Serve hand pies with sauces such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli to enhance the flavors.
2. Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a refreshing touch.
3. Pair with Salad: A light side salad can complement the richness of the pies.
4. Temperature: Hand pies are delicious warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for serving.
5. Presentation: Use a nice platter or basket lined with a cloth to present the hand pies beautifully.
By employing these serving tips, you can elevate the experience of enjoying savory hand pies, ensuring they are a crowd-pleaser at your next meal or gathering!
With this incredible recipe, you now have the ultimate blueprint for crafting delicious savory hand pies that will leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy creating and sharing this amazing dish!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients elevate the flavor of savory hand pies. Always opt for fresh vegetables and meats whenever possible.
– Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the filling. Cumin, paprika, or smoked paprika can add an exciting kick.
– Seal Properly: Make sure to seal the edges of your hand pies thoroughly to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
– Brush with Butter: For extra richness, brush melted butter over the hand pies after baking for a nice sheen and added flavor.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to get creative with your savory hand pies! Here are a few delicious variations to consider:
1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute meat with a medley of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and feta cheese for a delightful vegetarian hand pie.
2. Breakfast Pies: Use scrambled eggs, cooked bacon, and cheddar cheese for a delightful breakfast twist.
3. Spicy Hand Pies: Incorporate jalapeños and pepper jack cheese into the filling for a spicy kick that can warm you up on cold mornings.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep baked hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps maintain their flaky texture.
– Freezing: To freeze, arrange uncooked hand pies on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Special Equipment

Having the right tools can make all the difference! Here are some essential items you will need for making savory hand pies:
– Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough evenly.
– Pastry Cutter: Helpful for cutting cold butter into flour.
– Baking Sheet: Ensure it’s lined with parchment for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
– Circular Cutter: A round cutter for shaping your dough into perfect circles.
– Whisk or Fork: For beating the egg wash and sealing the edges of the hand pies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, store-bought pie crust can save time! Just follow the same steps for filling and baking.
What fillings can I use?
The options are endless! Try cheese and spinach, Mexican-inspired fillings with beans and cheese, or even curry-flavored vegetables.
How do I know when my hand pies are done?
Baked hand pies should be golden brown on top. If you’re unsure, you can cut one open to ensure the filling is hot.
Can I make these hand pies spicy?
Absolutely! Just add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling mixture for an added kick.
Is it possible to make a large batch?
Yes! You can easily double or triple this recipe. Just be sure to freeze any extras that you won’t be consuming within a few days.

Conclusion

Savory hand pies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them a perfect option for any meal or occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing a lunch, or simply looking for a satisfying snack, these little morsels are sure to impress. With various filling options and easy-to-follow steps, anyone can master the art of making these delightful pastries. The experience of creating and sharing savory hand pies will surely become a cherished memory over time. Enjoy the process, and savor every bite!

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