Description
These Beef and Cheese Hand Pies are the perfect savory snack or meal option, featuring a flaky crust filled with seasoned ground beef and melty cheese. Ideal for appetizers, main dishes with a salad, or picnic treats, they offer a comforting and satisfying bite. Customize the filling with sautéed vegetables or different cheeses to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Filling
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers or jalapeños (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/3 cup cold water
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat. Add onions, bell peppers or jalapeños if using, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are softened. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese.
- Assemble Hand Pies: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles approximately 4-5 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture onto one half of each circle. Fold the other half over and seal edges by crimping with a fork.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of each hand pie for a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake: Place the hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and flaky.
- Serve: Let the hand pies cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a snack or with a side salad for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with pepper jack or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
- Add sautéed onions, garlic, or jalapeños to the filling for extra flavor and heat.
- These hand pies freeze well; freeze before baking and bake from frozen, adding extra baking time.
- Make sure to seal the edges properly to prevent filling leakage during baking.
