Introduction to Cheesy Beef Hand Pies
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to meal prep. That’s why I absolutely adore these Cheesy Beef Hand Pies! They’re not just a quick solution for a hectic day; they’re also a delightful treat that my family can’t resist. Imagine flaky pastry filled with seasoned ground beef and gooey cheese, all wrapped up in a neat little package. Whether you’re looking to impress your loved ones or simply need a satisfying snack, these hand pies are sure to become a favorite in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef Hand Pies
These Cheesy Beef Hand Pies are a lifesaver for busy days! They come together quickly, making them perfect for a last-minute snack or meal. The combination of savory beef and melted cheese wrapped in a flaky crust is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to customize, so you can cater to your family’s tastes. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be making these hand pies on repeat!
Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Hand Pies
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Cheesy Beef Hand Pies a hit! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground Beef: The star of the show! I prefer lean ground beef for a healthier option, but feel free to use your favorite type.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to, but you can mix it up with mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Onion: Chopped onions add a sweet and savory depth to the filling. You can use yellow, white, or even red onions based on your preference.
- Garlic: Minced garlic brings a wonderful aroma and flavor. Fresh is best, but jarred garlic works in a pinch!
- Salt: A must-have for enhancing all the flavors in your filling. Adjust to your taste!
- Black Pepper: Just a pinch adds a subtle heat that balances the richness of the beef and cheese.
- Paprika: This spice adds a lovely color and a hint of smokiness. You can use sweet or smoked paprika depending on your taste.
- Pie Crusts: You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. Either way, they create that flaky, delicious exterior.
- Egg: Beaten egg is used for brushing the tops of the pies, giving them that beautiful golden finish.
Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra flavor. If you want to make these hand pies ahead of time, they can be frozen before baking for a quick snack later. For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing!
How to Make Cheesy Beef Hand Pies
Making Cheesy Beef Hand Pies is a fun and rewarding experience! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious snack ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your hand pies bake evenly. A hot oven helps achieve that golden, flaky crust we all love!
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat afterward. This step is important for keeping your hand pies a bit healthier while still being packed with flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of your filling, making it aromatic and delicious!
Step 4: Season the Mixture
Now it’s time to season your beef mixture! Stir in the salt, black pepper, and paprika. Each spice plays a role: salt enhances flavor, black pepper adds a subtle kick, and paprika gives a lovely smokiness. Mix well and remove from heat to let it cool slightly.
Step 5: Prepare the Pie Crusts
Roll out your pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut them into circles. Aim for about 4-5 inches in diameter. This size is perfect for filling and folding without making a mess!
Step 6: Fill the Hand Pies
Take a spoonful of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese, placing them on one half of each circle. Be careful not to overfill! Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges with a fork. This ensures that all that cheesy goodness stays inside!
Step 7: Brush with Egg Wash
For that beautiful golden finish, brush the tops of your hand pies with the beaten egg. This step not only adds color but also gives a nice sheen to your finished product. It’s the little things that make a big difference!
Step 8: Bake the Hand Pies
Place your hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid over-baking!
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the hand pies cool slightly before serving. This waiting period allows the filling to set a bit, making them easier to eat. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Tips for Success
- Use a good quality pie crust for the best texture.
- Don’t overfill the hand pies; a little goes a long way!
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
- Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent leaks.
- Let the filling cool slightly before assembling to avoid soggy crusts.
Equipment Needed
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any frying pan will do.
- Rolling Pin: If you don’t have one, a wine bottle can serve as a great alternative!
- Round Cutter: Use a glass or a cookie cutter to shape the pie crusts.
- Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper is ideal.
- Fork: Perfect for sealing the edges of your hand pies.
Variations of Cheesy Beef Hand Pies
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a fiery twist.
- Veggie Delight: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix different cheeses like feta, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique cheesy experience.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme to elevate the flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pie crusts to make these hand pies suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Beef Hand Pies
- Pair with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or spicy mustard for extra flavor.
- For a cozy touch, enjoy with a warm bowl of tomato soup.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
- Offer alongside a chilled beverage, like iced tea or lemonade, for a refreshing combo.
FAQs about Cheesy Beef Hand Pies
Can I make Cheesy Beef Hand Pies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the hand pies in advance. Just store them in the fridge for up to a day or freeze them before baking. This way, you’ll have a quick snack ready whenever you need it!
What can I serve with Cheesy Beef Hand Pies?
These hand pies pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or even a spicy aioli. A fresh salad or a warm bowl of soup also makes for a delightful meal!
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. The seasoning will still work beautifully with any protein you choose!
How do I know when the hand pies are done baking?
Keep an eye on them as they bake. They’re ready when they turn a lovely golden brown color. You can also check the filling by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean!
Can I customize the filling?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or even switch up the cheese. The beauty of these Cheesy Beef Hand Pies is their versatility!
Final Thoughts
Making Cheesy Beef Hand Pies is more than just cooking; it’s about creating moments of joy in the kitchen. The aroma of seasoned beef and melting cheese fills the air, making my family gather around, eager to taste the deliciousness. These hand pies are perfect for busy days, quick snacks, or even special gatherings. They bring comfort and satisfaction, reminding us that good food can create lasting memories. So, roll up your sleeves, get your hands a little messy, and enjoy the delightful experience of making these tasty treats. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Print
Cheesy Beef Hand Pies: A Delicious Snack You Must Try!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 hand pies 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cheesy Beef Hand Pies are a delightful snack filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, all encased in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 package of pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, and paprika. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Roll out the pie crusts and cut them into circles.
- Place a spoonful of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese on one half of each circle.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges with a fork.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra flavor.
- These hand pies can be frozen before baking for a quick snack later.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup or ranch dressing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hand pie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
