Ground Beef Hand Pies Recipe

If you have a craving for something savory, comforting, and downright delicious, this Ground Beef Hand Pies Recipe is exactly what you need. These golden, flaky hand pies are filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, tender carrots, peas, and aromatic spices that blend together beautifully. They are perfect as a snack, a casual meal, or even a party appetizer. Once you bite into the crisp pastry and warm filling, you’ll understand why this recipe quickly becomes a household favorite. Making these hand pies is not only satisfying but a wonderful way to bring a bit of homemade love into your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Ground Beef Hand Pies Recipe are refreshingly simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From vegetables to seasonings and the flaky pie crust, every component comes together harmoniously to create these mouthwatering pies.

• Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps soften the vegetables beautifully.
• Small onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base flavor for the filling.
• Carrots, finely diced: Bring a slight sweetness and delightful texture contrast inside the pie.
• Garlic, minced: Infuses aromatic depth just before browning the beef.
• Ground beef (1 pound): The hearty, meaty core that gives these pies their filling character.
• Tomato paste: Adds a rich umami punch and a hint of tanginess.
• Beef broth: Moistens and enriches the filling while helping it meld together.
• Worcestershire sauce: Brings complex, savory notes that elevate the taste.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
• Frozen peas: Small pops of sweetness and color to brighten the filling.
• Refrigerated pie crusts: Convenient and flaky, the perfect vessel for the filling.
• Large egg, beaten: Used to brush the tops so they bake to a beautiful golden brown.

How to Make Ground Beef Hand Pies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your hand pies bake evenly and release easily, giving you that perfect crisp bottom crust.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet heated over medium flame, warm the olive oil and add the finely chopped onion and diced carrots. Cook them gently for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. This base unlocks a natural sweetness that balances the savory beef filling wonderfully.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until you can smell that irresistible aroma waking up your kitchen. Garlic is key here—it layers in subtle complexity without overpowering anything.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef

Now it’s time to bring in the star protein. Add the ground beef and cook until browned all the way through, breaking it apart with a spatula or spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease to keep your pies from becoming too greasy.

Step 5: Create the Flavorful Filling

Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Let this lovely mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Add Peas and Cool Filling

Mix frozen peas into the hot filling and cook for just one more minute, letting them thaw and warm through. Remove the filling from the heat and give it time to cool completely before assembling your pies—this prevents the dough from becoming soggy.

Step 7: Cut Out Pie Circles

Roll out your refrigerated pie crusts on a clean surface and cut out 8 circles total—4 from each crust. These will become the perfect sized pockets to hold your flavorful filling.

Step 8: Fill and Seal the Pies

Place about 1/4 cup of the cooled filling in the center of each dough circle. Then, fold the circles over into half-moons and press the edges firmly together, using a fork to crimp and seal them. Don’t forget to cut a few small slits on the top to allow steam to escape during baking!

Step 9: Brush with Egg and Bake

Brush the tops of each hand pie with the beaten egg for that gorgeous golden glaze. Place them on your prepared baking sheet and bake for about 18 to 22 minutes or until they puff up and turn beautifully golden brown.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, let your Ground Beef Hand Pies cool slightly so you don’t burn your mouth. Then dig in and enjoy the perfect balance of flaky crust and savory filling.

How to Serve Ground Beef Hand Pies Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a garnish can turn these hand pies into a vibrant and inviting dish. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top for a hint of color and freshness that complements the rich beef filling. A dollop of sour cream or a side of tangy mustard also pairs wonderfully to add creamy or sharp contrast.

Side Dishes

This Ground Beef Hand Pies Recipe shines on its own but also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed green beans. A crisp greens salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the pies, while roasted vegetables can turn it into a hearty, complete dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these hand pies on a rustic wooden board for a cozy feel, or plate them individually with a small ramekin of dipping sauce like chimichurri or horseradish cream for an elegant touch. For gatherings, arrange them on a platter with colorful veggies and dips to impress your guests with minimal effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Beef Hand Pies store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure they have cooled completely before storing to keep the crust from becoming soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze these hand pies either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the pies and freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. After baking, cool completely before freezing and reheat from frozen or thawed.

Reheating

For the crispiest crust, reheat your leftover Ground Beef Hand Pies in an oven or toaster oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 12 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the flaky texture, but if you’re in a rush, microwave for about 30 seconds and finish in the oven if possible.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?

Absolutely! While ground beef is classic and flavorful, you can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you prefer. Just adjust the seasoning slightly to match the different meat.

Is it possible to make these pies gluten-free?

Yes! You can use gluten-free pie crusts available in many stores or make your own gluten-free pastry dough. Be sure to check all other ingredients to keep the dish fully gluten-free.

Can I prepare the filling a day ahead?

Definitely. Preparing the filling in advance is a great way to save time. Just keep it refrigerated and let it come to room temperature before using it to fill the pies.

What can I serve these hand pies with for a party?

They’re perfect as finger food alongside dipping sauces like ketchup, barbecue sauce, or ranch. Pairing with fresh crudités or a simple salad keeps the spread balanced and guest-friendly.

Do I have to use refrigerated pie crusts?

You don’t have to, but using refrigerated pie crusts is a fantastic shortcut that saves time and effort. If you love baking, making your own homemade pie dough would be delicious, too!

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Hand Pies Recipe is one of those gems that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward to make, incredibly satisfying, and versatile enough to suit many occasions. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or an appetizer for friends, these hand pies are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a go—you might just find your next favorite comfort food to keep on hand whenever hunger strikes.

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