If you are craving a warm, comforting treat that feels like a hug in pastry form, this Savory Hand Pies Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender chunks of chicken or savory ground beef mingled with vibrant veggies and fragrant herbs, all wrapped up in a flaky, golden crust that’s perfect for handheld eating. These pies are a delightful mix of hearty filling and crisp crust that will have you reaching for seconds and wanting to share this irresistible classic with everyone you know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet well-balanced ingredients that create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role—whether adding moisture, spice, or that unbeatable crustiness you crave.
- 2 cups cooked diced chicken or ground beef: Provides the rich, meaty base that carries the filling’s hearty flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for a light sauté that brings out the sweetness of your vegetables.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
- 1/2 cup diced carrots: Offers natural sweetness and a tender bite.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas: A pop of vibrant green and a mild sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Brings an aromatic punch that makes every bite unforgettable.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Injects an earthy, herbaceous note.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds a fragrant, piney flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for highlighting and balancing all flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that wakes up the palate.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the filling to the perfect consistency.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and richness without overpowering.
- 1 package 14 ounces refrigerated pie crusts or homemade pastry for a double crust: The golden canvas that cradles your delicious filling.
- 1 egg beaten for egg wash: Produces that irresistible golden sheen and a slight crisp.
How to Make Savory Hand Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then sauté the onions and carrots until softened, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This creates a sweet foundation for your filling. Adding the garlic next, cook for just 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning it. Now it’s time to bring in your protein—whether that’s tender chicken or savory ground beef—alongside peas and herbs like thyme and rosemary. Sprinkle in salt and pepper for seasoning. The secret step is adding flour, which binds everything beautifully when you pour in chicken broth, gently thickening the filling over the next couple of minutes. Let this mixture cool for about 10 minutes so it’s easy to handle.
Step 2: Shape the Pies
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pie crusts and cut them into 4 to 5-inch circles—perfect size for handheld pies. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cooled filling onto the center of each circle. Fold the dough over into a half-moon shape, then press edges firmly with a fork to seal in all that savory goodness. This step is not only practical but also creates those classic ridged edges that make hand pies so charming.
Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your prepared hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and gently brush the tops with a beaten egg wash to ensure a glossy, golden crust. Don’t forget to cut small slits in the tops to let steam escape—this helps keep the crust flaky and prevents sogginess. Slide them into a 400°F oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes until they’re gloriously golden brown. A few minutes of cooling later, and they’re ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Savory Hand Pies Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of flaky sea salt atop the warm pies immediately adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh note to each bite. If you want to boost that homey feel, serve alongside a tangy mustard dip or a creamy garlic aioli—these simple touches elevate the pies from delicious to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
These hand pies truly shine as a stand-alone snack, but pairing them with a crisp green salad or a bowl of hearty soup creates a well-rounded, comforting meal. Steamed green beans or roasted root vegetables also make for colorful, nutritious companions that balance the richness of the pies beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing spread, arrange your hand pies on a rustic wooden board with a variety of dipping sauces in small bowls. Adding some fresh herbs around the edges not only makes your presentation vibrant but invites your guests to dig in. These pies also travel well, making them perfect for picnics or packed lunches that still feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to three days. Reheat gently to keep the crust crisp and the filling warm and inviting.
Freezing
You can freeze hand pies both before and after baking. If freezing before, assemble and seal them, then flash freeze on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag to prevent sticking. They can last up to two months this way. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. For baked pies, wrap each tightly and freeze; reheat in the oven until warm and crisp.
Reheating
The oven is the best friend here—reheat your pies at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes, ensuring the crust stays flaky and the filling stays hot. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that perfect hand pie texture.
FAQs
Can I make these hand pies vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken or beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or even your favorite plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian twist that still offers plenty of savory satisfaction.
What if I don’t have refrigerated pie crusts?
Making your own pastry is a wonderful option if you have the time. A simple homemade pie dough will elevate these hand pies, adding a fresh, buttery flavor that complements the filling perfectly.
Can I use leftover cooked meat?
Yes, leftover cooked chicken or beef works fabulously and is a great way to reduce food waste while making these pies extra flavorful thanks to the seasoning and medley of vegetables.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Definitely. Whether frozen before baking or after, these hand pies maintain their flavor and texture well, making meal prep easy and convenient.
How do I ensure the pies don’t get soggy?
Make sure the filling is cooled before assembling and bake at the recommended temperature with vent slits on top to allow steam to escape, which helps keep the crust crisp and flaky.
Final Thoughts
There is something uniquely comforting and joyful about biting into a golden, flaky hand pie filled with a perfectly seasoned, savory mixture. This Savory Hand Pies Recipe is a must-try that’s both approachable for home cooks and impressive enough to share at any gathering. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to these little pockets of happiness that deliver big on flavor and heartiness in every bite.
Print
Savory Hand Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 hand pies
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These savory hand pies are a delicious and portable meal option, filled with a flavorful mixture of cooked chicken or ground beef, vegetables, and herbs, all encased in a golden, flaky pie crust. Perfect for a comforting main course, these hand pies bake to a crispy finish and can be customized or made ahead for easy meal prep.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked diced chicken or ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Crust
- 1 package (14 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts or homemade pastry for a double crust
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion and diced carrots for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Combine Meat and Vegetables: Add the cooked diced chicken or ground beef along with frozen peas, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Thicken the Filling: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture and stir thoroughly. Pour in the chicken broth and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the filling slightly thickens.
- Cool the Filling: Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool for about 10 minutes, making it easier to handle and preventing the dough from getting soggy.
- Prepare Pie Crust Circles: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie crusts and cut into 4 to 5-inch circles suitable for individual hand pies.
- Fill and Seal Hand Pies: Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cooled filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal tightly.
- Apply Egg Wash and Vent: Arrange the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve a golden finish. Cut small slits on the top of each pie to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake: Bake the hand pies in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes or until they are golden brown and fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Let the hand pies cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to allow the filling to set and avoid burning.
Notes
- You can substitute the chicken or beef with ground turkey, sausage, or sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor profile or dietary preference.
- Add shredded cheese to the filling for extra richness and a melty texture.
- These hand pies freeze well both before and after baking, making them ideal for convenient meal prep and quick reheating.
