Ground Beef Hand Pies Recipe

If you are looking for a warm, comforting snack or a delightful meal that’s easy to hold and packed with flavor, then this Ground Beef Hand Pies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender veggies, and a flaky crust come together to create these golden, savory pockets of joy. Whether you’re making lunch for the family or preparing appetizers for a gathering, these hand pies deliver rich taste and hearty satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Ground Beef Hand Pies Recipe lies in using simple, everyday ingredients that each play a crucial part. From the savory ground beef to the flaky pie crust, every component contributes to the incredible texture, rich flavor, and inviting color of the final dish.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the veggies to sweet, tender perfection.
• 1 small onion finely chopped: Adds a robust, aromatic base flavor.
• 1/2 cup carrots finely diced: Provides a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
• 2 cloves garlic minced: Brings fragrant depth to the filling.
• 1 pound ground beef: The hearty, protein-packed star of the filling.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Gives a rich, tangy undertone that balances the savory beef.
• 1/3 cup beef broth: Moistens and enriches the filling for juicy hand pies.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a subtle umami punch and complexity.
• 3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of gentle heat.
• 1/2 cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of sweetness and color.
• 2 refrigerated pie crusts: For a flaky, buttery crust that encases the filling perfectly.
• 1 large egg beaten: Used to brush the crust, giving it a gorgeous golden finish.

How to Make Ground Beef Hand Pies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F, then line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent any sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This sets the stage for your hand pies to bake evenly and come out perfectly crisp.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the finely chopped onion and diced carrots. Cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant, which creates a wonderful foundation for your filling.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Now toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds. This brief cooking time ensures the garlic’s aroma and flavor are bright and fresh, not bitter or overpowering.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef

Add your ground beef to the skillet and cook until fully browned. Be sure to break the meat apart as it cooks for even browning and texture. Once browned, drain any excess grease for a cleaner taste and less oily hand pie.

Step 5: Flavor the Filling

Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Add the Peas and Cool the Filling

Mix in the frozen peas, cooking for just a minute to defrost and evenly distribute throughout the filling. Then, remove the skillet from heat and allow the filling to cool completely — this step prevents the pastry from getting soggy and makes assembling easier.

Step 7: Prepare Your Pie Crusts

Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a clean surface and use a round cutter to cut out 8 circles total, 4 from each crust. These circles will be the perfect size for your hand pies.

Step 8: Fill the Dough Circles

Place about 1/4 cup of the cooled beef mixture in the center of each circle. Be careful not to overfill, so the pies can be sealed nicely and bake evenly.

Step 9: Seal the Hand Pies

Fold each dough circle over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly and crimp them with a fork. Don’t forget to cut small slits on top to allow steam to escape and avoid soggy crusts.

Step 10: Brush and Bake

Brush the tops of each hand pie with the beaten egg to achieve that shiny, golden-brown crust everyone loves. Bake on the prepared sheet for 18 to 22 minutes, until the crust is perfectly golden and flaky.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Let your Ground Beef Hand Pies cool slightly on a rack before diving in. This helps the filling set and prevents any burning on that first bite.

How to Serve Ground Beef Hand Pies Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top bring a lovely burst of color and freshness that cuts through the richness of the filling.

Side Dishes

Serve these hand pies with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Creamy mashed potatoes or a tangy coleslaw also make wonderful accompaniments that complement the savory flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these hand pies with various dipping sauces such as a smoky barbecue, spicy mustard, or a cooling sour cream dip. You can also cut smaller versions to create bite-sized appetizers perfect for parties or casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Ground Beef Hand Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack or meal.

Freezing

You can freeze fully baked hand pies by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to a month, making meal prep a breeze.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated or frozen hand pies in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through and the crust is crisp again, about 10 to 15 minutes. This method keeps the texture crispier than microwaving.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?

Absolutely! Homemade pie crust works beautifully and adds a personal touch, but refrigerated crust saves time and still produces a flaky, delicious result.

What can I add to the filling for extra flavor?

Feel free to experiment with spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, or herbs such as thyme or oregano to tailor the filling to your tastes.

Are these hand pies suitable for freezing before baking?

Yes! You can assemble the pies and freeze them uncooked. Just thaw slightly before baking and bake as directed for a freshly baked taste whenever you want.

Can I substitute the ground beef for another protein?

Definitely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based grounds work well. Adjust seasoning to complement different proteins.

How do I know when the pies are done baking?

Look for a golden brown, flaky crust and hot, bubbling filling through the vent slits on top.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Hand Pies Recipe is a fantastic way to bring warm, satisfying flavors to your table with minimal fuss. The combination of a crispy crust and hearty filling makes them equally perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. I can’t wait for you to try making these — they’re guaranteed to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection!

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