Super Bowl Food Savory Hand Pies
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
I always look forward to making these savory hand pies for the Super Bowl. There’s something magical about bite-sized comforts filled with delicious ingredients that everyone loves. These hand pies are perfect for sharing, and they allow for plenty of creativity, so I often find myself experimenting. With flaky crust and savory fillings, they are an impressive yet simple snack that steals the show. The best part is that they can be made ahead of time, making my game day preparations a breeze!
Creating these savory hand pies has become a cherished tradition in my home. I love experimenting with different fillings like seasoned ground meat, cheesy veggies, and even spicy beans for variety. The key to achieving that perfect flaky crust is to keep your butter cold and not overwork the dough—I learned this the hard way when my first few attempts went flat!
When the pies come out of the oven, golden brown and flaky, there's nothing quite like the aroma that fills my kitchen. I typically serve them with a zesty dipping sauce on the side, which adds that extra layer of flavor. A hint of fresh herbs in the filling elevates the taste and makes everyone eager for seconds!
Why You'll Love These Hand Pies
- Flaky, buttery crust that offers a satisfying crunch
- Versatile fillings to suit all taste preferences
- Perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers
Mastering the Dough
The key to achieving a flaky, buttery crust lies in the handling of the butter during the dough-making process. Start with very cold butter and work quickly to cut it into the flour. The goal is to keep the butter's small bits intact; these will create steam during baking, resulting in a beautifully layered crust. Avoid over-mixing the dough and don’t hesitate to refrigerate it if it becomes too warm during preparation.
When rolling out the dough, ensure your workspace is well-floured to prevent sticking. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch. If you find your dough is tough to roll, allow it to rest in the refrigerator for a few minutes before continuing. A well-chilled dough is not only easier to manage but also helps in achieving that desired flaky texture when baked.
Filling Variations
While the basic filling of ground meat, cheese, and spices is a crowd-pleaser, feel free to get creative with your ingredients! For a vegetarian option, consider substituting the meat with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables. Just ensure any added veggies are cooked and moisture is minimized to prevent soggy pies. You might also want to experiment with different cheeses, like feta or pepper jack, for unique flavor profiles.
To enhance the savory character of your filling, consider adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. Mixing in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or even a bit of mustard can also elevate the flavor, adding depth and richness that pairs wonderfully with the crust. Remember to taste the mixture before it cools to ensure it’s seasoned perfectly to your liking.
Tips for Assembly and Baking
Ensure that you are generous with your egg wash; it acts as a crucial barrier, giving your hand pies that lovely golden color while sealing in moisture. Use a pastry brush for even application, as this will help create an appealing, shiny finish. Don’t overfill your pies as this can lead to bursting during baking—about a tablespoon of filling is usually just right.
For a perfect bake, keep an eye on the hand pies as they approach the 20-minute mark. Look for a uniform golden brown color and a slightly puffed appearance. If you want them to stay crisp after baking, allow them to cool on a wire rack instead of on the baking sheet. This will help air circulate around them and prevent condensation that can make the crust soggy.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
Filling
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Flour for dusting
Preparation Steps
Instructions
Make the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Prepare the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in the cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Hand Pies
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface. Cut out circles using a biscuit cutter.
Bake
Place hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm along with your favorite dipping sauces.
Enjoy your hand pies!
Pro Tips
- Try different fillings based on your preference, such as vegetables or spicy ingredients for a vegetarian option. These hand pies can also be frozen before baking for those last-minute game day cravings!
Make-Ahead and Storage
These savory hand pies can be made in advance, making them ideal for game day preparations. Once assembled but before baking, you can freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer the frozen pies to a zip-top bag for up to three months. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfect results.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can cause the crust to become chewy rather than flaky.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing these hand pies with a selection of dipping sauces can elevate your serving experience. Consider tangy options like a spicy aioli or a creamy ranch dressing. For a sweet contrast, a homemade fruit chutney can also work wonderfully. Arrange the hand pies on a platter, accompanied by small bowls of sauces for easy sharing during your event.
You can even incorporate a themed approach with your sides. Serve these hand pies alongside classic game day snacks like nachos, guacamole, or a fresh salsa. This not only makes for a well-rounded buffet but allows guests to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures, ensuring your Super Bowl gathering is a hit.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter a situation where your dough is too crumbly and refuses to hold together, this often signals that not enough water was added. Gradually drizzle in more ice water, mixing gently, until the dough forms a cohesive ball. If it’s overly sticky, simply sprinkle in a bit more flour while kneading, but be cautious not to overwork it.
For the filling, if it seems too runny, you may need to let it cool longer as the cheese shouldn't melt completely before assembly. This could also happen if using high-moisture ingredients. For heavily juiced vegetables, pre-cook them to evaporate some of their moisture before combining. This helps achieve the ideal filling consistency, preventing any sogginess in your final product.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, store-bought pie crust can save time. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for handling.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
→ Can I freeze the hand pies?
Absolutely! Assemble the hand pies, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
→ What dipping sauces go well with these pies?
I recommend salsa, sour cream, or a spicy aioli for a flavorful dip!
Super Bowl Food Savory Hand Pies
I always look forward to making these savory hand pies for the Super Bowl. There’s something magical about bite-sized comforts filled with delicious ingredients that everyone loves. These hand pies are perfect for sharing, and they allow for plenty of creativity, so I often find myself experimenting. With flaky crust and savory fillings, they are an impressive yet simple snack that steals the show. The best part is that they can be made ahead of time, making my game day preparations a breeze!
Created by: Ainsley Harper
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 hand pies
What You'll Need
Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
Filling
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Flour for dusting
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in the cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface. Cut out circles using a biscuit cutter. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle, fold in half, and crimp edges with a fork to seal. Brush the tops with egg wash.
Place hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm along with your favorite dipping sauces.
Extra Tips
- Try different fillings based on your preference, such as vegetables or spicy ingredients for a vegetarian option. These hand pies can also be frozen before baking for those last-minute game day cravings!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g