Stumbling upon a perfect hand pie recipe is like unearthing buried treasure—a delightful surprise that transforms your meals. Introducing my Flaky Ground Beef Hand Pies, a dish that blends savory seasoned beef with fresh veggies, all tucked inside a golden, flaky crust. These little pockets of joy are not only a cinch to whip up but are also fully customizable to suit your taste, making them a great option for meal prep or impromptu get-togethers. Plus, with their freezer-friendly nature, you can stock up for those busy weeknights when cooking feels overwhelming. Aren’t you curious about how these can become your new go-to comfort food? Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Ground Beef Hand Pies?
Versatile Creation: Whether you need a quick snack, a hearty meal, or an appetizer for your next gathering, these hand pies fit the bill perfectly. Flavorful Customization: Enjoy aromatic spices and fresh ingredients tailored to your palate, making every bite uniquely yours. Time-Saving Delight: Easily prepare them ahead of time and freeze for those busy nights—pure convenience! Best yet, family-friendly and freezer-friendly, they’re the answer to your “what’s for dinner?” dilemma. Serve them alongside a fresh salad, or try them with a zesty dip for a delightful touch!
Ground Beef Hand Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
• Ground Beef – The heart of these hand pies, offering a rich flavor; feel free to substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage.
• Vegetables (optional) – Enhance both flavor and nutrition; diced potatoes work wonderfully if pre-cooked!
• Seasonings – Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, or herbs to elevate the taste of your filling.
For the Crust
• Pie Dough – This is what creates that flaky texture; you can save time by using store-bought puff pastry for an extra flaky bite.
• Egg (for egg wash) – Brush on top for a golden-brown finish; while optional, it adds an appealing sheen to your hand pies.
Optional Add-Ins
• Cheese – Melt-in-your-mouth goodness; adding cheese like cheddar can enhance the flavor profile.
• Herbs – Fresh or dried herbs can elevate the taste; consider thyme or parsley for a fragrant twist.
With these ingredients ready, you’re well on your way to creating delectable Ground Beef Hand Pies that everyone will love—let’s make mealtime an adventure!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ground Beef Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook the beef for about 8-10 minutes, stirring until it’s browned and no longer pink. If desired, incorporate finely diced vegetables like onions or bell peppers during the last 3 minutes of cooking to infuse the filling with flavor. Drain any excess grease before seasoning with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, take your pie dough and roll it out to about 1/8-inch thickness for a flaky texture. Use a round cutter or a bowl to cut out circles, about 4–6 inches in diameter, depending on how big you want your Ground Beef Hand Pies. Gather any excess dough, re-roll, and cut additional circles until you have enough for your filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies
Place a round of dough on a clean, flat surface and spoon a generous amount of the beef filling (about 2 tablespoons) onto one half of the dough circle—be careful not to overfill! Fold the dough over the filling to create a semicircle and press the edges tightly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security, ensuring no filling leaks out while baking.
Step 4: Apply Egg Wash
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your hand pies for the oven. In a small bowl, beat one egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of your sealed Ground Beef Hand Pies with the egg wash, giving them a shiny, golden finish when they bake. This step is essential for that perfect, visually appealing crust.
Step 5: Bake the Hand Pies
Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they become golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking; you’ll know they’re ready when they emit a delicious savory aroma and the crust is beautifully browned.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Once baked, remove the Ground Beef Hand Pies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before serving. This cooling step helps the filling set slightly and prevents burns. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for later enjoyment, making mealtime easier!
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef Hand Pies
Fridge: Store cooled Ground Beef Hand Pies in an airtight container for up to 4 days, keeping them fresh and ready for easy snacking anytime.
Freezer: Freeze your hand pies for up to 3 months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheating: For best results, reheat baked or frozen hand pies in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, ensuring a crispy crust.
Uncooked Storage: Unbaked hand pies can be frozen directly on the baking sheet; once frozen, pack them into a bag and bake directly from the freezer.
Make Ahead Options
Ground Beef Hand Pies are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling in advance—just cook the ground beef and vegetables, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the hand pies, simply roll out the dough, fill with the prepared mixture, and assemble them as directed. To freeze, assemble the hand pies and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 30 minutes, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake them straight from the freezer for 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C), and they’ll be just as delicious, making weeknight meals a breeze!
What to Serve with Ground Beef Hand Pies
An inviting hand pie experience opens up a delightful world of sides and accompaniments that will elevate your meal.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp blend of greens and veggies, drizzled with a light vinaigrette, balances the richness of the hand pies beautifully. The freshness adds a refreshing contrast, making each bite feel lighter.
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Savory Potato Wedges: Crispy, seasoned potato wedges provide an extra layer of texture and comfort. Their crunch pairs perfectly with the soft, flaky crust of the hand pies, creating a satisfying contrast.
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Creamy Dipping Sauce: Try a tangy ranch or a zesty chimichurri for a flavor-packed dip. The creamy texture enhances the flavor while adding a fun element to your hand pie experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings vibrant color and earthy flavors to your plate. The caramelized sweetness of roasted veggies complements the savory filling, creating harmony in every bite.
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Peppery Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy slaw adds a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness of the beef filling. Its crunchy texture and creamy dressing provide a delightful textural contrast with each bite.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A chilled glass of sparkling lemonade with a hint of mint is a refreshing sip that brightens up the meal. The lightness of the drink helps to cleanse the palate between bites.
With these accompaniment ideas in your culinary toolkit, you can turn your Ground Beef Hand Pies into a complete and memorable meal!
Ground Beef Hand Pies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine while making these hand pies—there’s so much room for personalization!
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Turkey Option: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner alternative, keeping all the flavors intact. It’s a lighter option that still delivers on taste!
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Veggie-Packed: Add finely chopped spinach or kale to the filling for a nutritional boost. Not only will you enhance health benefits, but it’ll also add a beautiful color contrast.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the beef mixture for that fiery twist. Spice lovers will adore this customization!
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Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, for a melty, gooey filling. Cheese lovers can never go wrong with a bit of extra indulgence!
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Herb Infusion: Feel free to toss in fresh herbs like dill or chives for added freshness. Each bite will remind you of a lovely herb garden in full bloom.
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Sweet and Savory: Add a spoonful of fruit preserves, such as apricot or cherry, into the filling for a sweet-salty symphony of flavors. It’s a delightful surprise that elevates the classic hand pie!
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Flaky Puff Pastry: Use store-bought puff pastry for an even flakier texture that melts in your mouth. This substitution creates a delicate, buttery crust that elevates the whole experience!
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Sautéed Veggie Medley: Instead of just one veggie, try a combination of onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a savory filling explosion. The mix adds depth and makes each hand pie a flavorful adventure!
Explore these variations and make our Ground Beef Hand Pies your very own culinary masterpiece! If you’re still intrigued, check out my recipe for Mediterranean Ground Beef for more delicious ideas!
Expert Tips for Ground Beef Hand Pies
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Seal it Tight: Make sure to crimp the edges well to prevent any tempting filling from leaking during baking. A good seal is essential for the perfect Ground Beef Hand Pies.
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Optimal Dough Thickness: Rolling your dough too thick can result in a tough crust. Aim for about 1/8-inch thickness for a flaky, tender finish.
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Avoid Overfilling: It’s tempting to add more filling, but overfilling leads to messy pies. Stick to 2 tablespoons of filling for the best results.
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Egg Wash Magic: Don’t skip the egg wash! It gives your hand pies that beautiful golden color and glossy finish, enticing everyone to come to the table.
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Cool Before Storing: Let the hand pies cool fully before placing them in storage to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. Enjoy them fresh or freeze for later!
Ground Beef Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground beef?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Ground Beef Hand Pies, I recommend using ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20 or 85/15. This ensures a juicy filling without excessive greasiness. However, if you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can make excellent substitutes while still providing delicious flavor.
How should I store leftover hand pies?
Once you’ve enjoyed your hand pies, let any leftovers cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they will stay fresh for up to 4 days. If you’re ready to savor them later, freezing is a fantastic option!
Can I freeze uncooked hand pies?
Yes, indeed! Freezing uncooked Ground Beef Hand Pies is a wonderful way to have meals ready to go. To do this, arrange the assembled hand pies on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, ensuring they’re well-sealed. They can be baked straight from the freezer—just add a few minutes to the baking time.
What if my dough feels too tough after rolling?
Very often, dough can become tough due to overworking it. If your pie crust feels too dense after rolling, let it rest for about 15-30 minutes. Cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, leading to a flakier, more tender crust that will enhance your Ground Beef Hand Pies.
Can my pets enjoy these hand pies?
While the filling is made from ingredients that are typically safe for pets, it’s best to avoid sharing these hand pies with them. The seasonings and potential high-fat content may not be suitable for their diets. Always consult your vet regarding any specific food concerns for your furry friends.
How long will frozen hand pies last?
Your delicious Ground Beef Hand Pies will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best quality, make sure they are sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them directly from the frozen state, and enjoy that delightful taste as if they were just baked!
Savor Every Bite of Ground Beef Hand Pies for Easy Meals
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 8-10 minutes until browned. Add optional diced vegetables for the last 3 minutes.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out pie dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut circles of 4–6 inches in diameter.
- Place dough on a clean surface, spoon filling onto one half, fold over to seal and crimp with a fork.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Beat egg with water, brush on sealed pies.
- Bake on a lined baking sheet for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let the pies cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before serving.
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