Super Bowl Food Savory Hand Pies

Name: Super Bowl Food Savory Hand Pies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 hand pies
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 6-8 tbsp ice water; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making savory hand pies for game day! These delicious bites are perfect for sharing with friends and family while we cheer on our favorite teams. With a flaky crust and a filling packed with flavor, they always disappear quickly. Whether filled with spiced meats or vibrant vegetables, these hand pies are versatile and easy to customize for any taste. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them a stress-free addition to any Super Bowl spread.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-10T10:58:25.431Z

Making these savory hand pies has been a game changer for my Super Bowl parties. I experimented with different fillings and landed on a combination of ground beef, cheddar cheese, and spices that has become a favorite in our household. The trick is to ensure the filling is flavorful but not too wet, as it needs to stay contained during baking. I also like to whip up a quick dipping sauce to serve alongside for an extra layer of flavor.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is the versatility. You can easily swap out the filling based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, I’ve made vegetarian versions using mushrooms and spinach that my friends rave about. Additionally, the hand pies can be frozen before baking, making them a great option for impromptu gatherings.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Comforting filling that's packed with flavor
Flaky, buttery crust that melts in your mouth
Perfect finger food for game day festivities

      

Perfecting the Crust

The crust is the backbone of your savory hand pies, so it's worth taking the time to perfect it. When mixing the butter into the flour, aim for a texture that resembles coarse meal with some small pea-sized butter pieces intact. This will ensure a flaky texture when baked. If you notice your dough is too dry, you can add an extra tablespoon of ice water, but be cautious not to over-hydrate it, as this can lead to tough crusts.

After refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before rolling out. This relaxes the gluten, making it easier to work with. Roll the dough evenly on a lightly floured surface to avoid sticking, and check for thickness regularly. An even 1/8 inch thickness will create the perfect ratio of flaky crust to savory filling.

Flavorful Filling Variations

While the classic combination of ground beef and cheddar cheese is a crowd-pleaser, don't be afraid to customize the filling to suit your palate or dietary needs. Ground turkey or chicken can serve as lighter alternatives, while plant-based proteins, such as lentils or crumbled tofu, can easily replace meat for a vegetarian option. Additionally, consider adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Spices can also dramatically alter the flavor profile of your hand pies. If you enjoy heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling. Alternatively, incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. Just remember to balance the flavors; if you increase the spice, you might want to dial back the salt to avoid overpowering your palate.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

These savory hand pies are perfect for prepping in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests on game day. After assembling the pies, you can either freeze them before baking or refrigerate them for up to one day. If freezing, place the uncooked hand pies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be baked directly from frozen; just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

For storage after baking, allow the hand pies to cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. This method will restore their flaky texture, ensuring they taste just as good as when they were freshly baked.

Ingredients

For the Crust

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
6-8 tbsp ice water

For the Filling

1 lb ground beef
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Gather all ingredients for a smooth preparation process.

Instructions

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.

Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft. Stir in chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Remove from heat and mix in cheddar cheese.

Assemble the Hand Pies

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles, place a spoonful of filling in the center of each, fold over, and seal the edges with a fork.

Brush tops with beaten egg.

Bake

Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your savory hand pies warm and fresh!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, try adding different spices or vegetables to the filling. You can also serve these hand pies with dipping sauces like salsa or ranch for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Savory hand pies make excellent finger foods for gatherings, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your game day spread. Serve them with a side of dipping sauces, such as spicy mustard, ranch dressing, or a zesty salsa. Create a small platter with an assortment of dips to invite your guests to mix and match flavors during the festivities.

If you're looking to add variety, consider a side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the hand pies. You can also serve them alongside some crunchy veggie sticks or a cheese plate featuring tangy cheeses that complement the savory flavors of the pies.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your hand pies leak filling during baking, it often means they were overfilled or not sealed properly. Be generous but not excessive with the filling—about a tablespoon is usually perfect per pie. When sealing, ensure you press the edges firmly with a fork to create a tight closure that keeps the filling contained during baking.

Another common issue is a soggy bottom crust. This can occur if the filling is too wet or if the hand pies sit for too long before baking. To combat this, ensure that you drain any excess moisture from the filling ingredients. You might also consider adding a thin layer of breadcrumbs on the crust before adding filling, acting as a moisture barrier.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator.

→ What can I use as a filling instead of meat?

You can use a variety of vegetables, cheeses, or even legumes like lentils for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I freeze the hand pies before baking them?

Absolutely! Assemble the pies, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.