Puff Pastry Hand Pies

Savory Puff Pastry Hand Pies are golden, flaky pockets filled with a rich and flavorful meat filling. These delicious hand-held pies make for a comforting meal or snack, perfect for any time of the day. With a crispy, buttery crust and a hearty filling, they are a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and flaky texture – The puff pastry bakes to a perfect golden crunch.
• Easy and convenient – Made with store-bought puff pastry for a quick and simple recipe.
• Hearty and satisfying – Filled with seasoned meat and optional cheese for extra flavor.
• Customizable – Swap the meat, add veggies, or change the seasonings to fit your taste.
• Great for meal prep – Make ahead and freeze for a quick meal option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or chicken
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)

For the Pastry:

• 1 package (2 sheets) store-bought puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning

Directions

Prepare the Filling:

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until soft.
2. Add ground meat, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
3. Cook until fully browned, then remove from heat. Let cool slightly and mix in shredded cheese if using.

Assemble the Hand Pies:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry and cut into equal-sized rectangles.
3. Spoon a portion of the filling onto half of the rectangles, leaving space around the edges.
4. Place another rectangle of pastry on top and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
5. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning.

Bake & Serve:

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
2. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a side of vegetables or a warm soup!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 hand pies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Calories: 320 kcal per pie

Variations

• Cheesy Hand Pies – Add more cheese to the filling for a gooey, melty texture.
• Vegetarian Option – Swap meat for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or lentils.
• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Breakfast Version – Fill with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese for a morning meal.
• Sweet & Savory – Use caramelized onions and goat cheese for a unique flavor combination.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftover pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – Freeze unbaked or baked pies in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw before baking or reheating.
• Reheating – Warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them and store them in the fridge or freezer before baking.

2. Can I use homemade pastry instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry or shortcrust pastry will work well.

3. Can I bake these in an air fryer?

Yes, cook at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes, checking for doneness.

4. How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

Seal the edges well and avoid overfilling the pies.

5. Can I make these pies without egg wash?

Yes, but the egg wash gives a golden, glossy finish. You can use milk instead.

6. What other seasonings can I use?

Try adding cumin, curry powder, or Italian herbs for different flavors.

7. Can I make these with a different meat?

Yes, ground turkey, pork, or lamb are great alternatives.

8. What can I serve with these hand pies?

They pair well with a salad, soup, or roasted vegetables.

9. How do I get an extra flaky crust?

Chill the pies before baking to ensure a flakier pastry.

10. Can I make mini versions of these pies?

Yes, cut smaller pastry squares and reduce baking time slightly.

Conclusion

Savory Puff Pastry Hand Pies are a delicious, versatile, and easy-to-make dish that works for any meal. With a rich, flavorful filling encased in a golden, crispy pastry, these hand pies are the perfect combination of convenience and comfort. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated for a quick bite, they are a must-try for anyone who loves flaky, savory pastries!