Super Bowl Party Savory Hand Pies

Name: Super Bowl Party Savory Hand Pies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 24 hand pies
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp sugar; 6-8 tbsp ice water; 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making savory hand pies, especially for game day when friends and family come together. These Super Bowl Party Savory Hand Pies are the perfect finger food, packed with a flavorful filling that brings everyone together around the snack table. The flaky, buttery crust combined with the spiced meat and veggies is simply irresistible. They’re not just easy to make, but they also allow for endless filling variations. Whether it’s a win or a loss, these hand pies will keep the spirits high!

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:34:14.710Z

During last year's Super Bowl, I decided to experiment with my hand pie recipe and it became an instant hit! I chose a savory filling made from ground beef, sautéed onions, and a touch of spices. The unique combination not only satisfied our cravings but also elevated the atmosphere of the party. Everyone loved how they could easily grab a hand pie without interrupting the game!

I recommend preparing the dough in advance and letting it chill. This makes it easier to roll out and shape. Also, brushing each pie with egg wash before baking gives them a beautiful golden color and a crisp crust that takes these savory pies to the next level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously spiced filling that packs a punch
Perfect handheld size for game-day gatherings
Flaky crust that complements the savory filling beautifully

      

Perfecting the Dough

The dough is the backbone of your savory hand pies, providing a flaky and buttery texture that's essential for a satisfying bite. Using cold butter is crucial; it creates steam during baking, which helps achieve that desirable flakiness. For best results, make sure not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to a tougher texture. Mix just until you see a crumbly consistency, then add in the ice water gradually, monitoring until the dough forms without becoming sticky.

Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling is also important. This rest time allows the gluten to relax, enhancing the overall texture. If you're short on time, you can make the dough a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen for up to three months; just allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Filling Variations and Tips

While this recipe features a savory beef filling, hand pies are incredibly versatile. Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or go vegetarian with sautéed mushrooms and spinach. You can even use leftover cooked meats mixed with cheese and veggies, making them an excellent way to minimize food waste while creating a delicious snack.

Adding spices can elevate the filling even more; try incorporating chili powder for a kick or Italian herbs for a Mediterranean twist. Ensure the filling is cooled before assembling the pies to prevent the dough from becoming soggy, as excess moisture can lead to a chewy, less enjoyable texture.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience:

For the Dough

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
6-8 tbsp ice water

For the Filling

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 egg (for egg wash)

Make sure to keep any leftover dough wrapped in the refrigerator for future use!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect hand pies:

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough comes together.

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

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and garlic. Stir in paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Once cooked, remove from heat and mix in the cheese. Let it cool slightly.

Assemble the Hand Pies

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and cut into circles (about 4 inches in diameter). Place a spoonful of filling on one half of each circle, fold it over, and seal the edges with a fork.

Brush the tops with egg wash.

Bake

Transfer the pastries to a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Serve these warm and watch them disappear!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or even veggies for a vegetarian option. You can also spice things up by adding jalapeños or other favorite toppings.

Serving Suggestions

These savory hand pies are perfect for game day gatherings, and they pair wonderfully with dipping sauces. Consider serving them alongside spicy salsa, tangy guacamole, or a rich cheese dip to enhance the flavor experience. Having a variety of dips encourages people to experiment and find their perfect pairing, making your snack table even more inviting.

If you're looking to provide a complete meal, you could serve the hand pies with a side salad or slaw. A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad can balance the richness of the pies, making for a well-rounded spread that’s sure to please.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover hand pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them instead. Once baked and cooled completely, place the hand pies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to three months. This way, you’ll always have a quick snack ready for unexpected guests or late-night cravings.

To reheat, take the frozen hand pies out of the freezer and place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Reheating in the oven preserves their flaky texture, unlike using a microwave, which can make the crust soggy. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can these be frozen?

Absolutely! Unbaked hand pies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I use for the filling?

You can use any type of filling you like! Cooked chicken, veggies, or even leftovers work great.

→ How do I reheat them?

Reheat the baked hand pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.