Introduction:
Ever been in a rush but craving something savory and fulfilling? Enter the Beef Sausage Hand Pie – a flaky pastry filled with juicy beef sausage, vegetables, and spices. These hand pies are the embodiment of comfort food you can hold in your hand. Ideal for on-the-go breakfasts, picnics, or just about any occasion where convenience meets flavor. Let’s venture into crafting this savory treat!
Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sausage, casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 4-5 tablespoons cold water
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions:
- Start by preparing the filling. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the beef sausage, breaking it apart into small crumbles. Once browned, remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Mix the beef sausage back into the skillet and season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and black pepper. Stir well, then set aside to cool.
- For the pastry, in a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers to blend them into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Slowly add the cold water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cutter (or a bowl), cut out circles.
- Place a tablespoon or two of the beef sausage mixture in the center of each circle. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese if desired.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges with a fork to seal.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes:
- You can add additional seasonings or herbs to the filling for enhanced flavors, such as paprika or fresh parsley.
- These hand pies can be frozen before baking. When ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen, adding a few more minutes to the cooking time.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, consider adding a chopped jalapeño or a dash of chili flakes to the beef sausage mixture.
FAQ:
- Can I use store-bought pie crust?
- Yes, store-bought pie crust can be a time-saving alternative. Just ensure it’s rolled thin enough to fold easily over the filling.
- How can I store leftover hand pies?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Can I use other meats for the filling?
- Absolutely! Pork sausage, ground turkey, or even vegetarian fillings can work wonderfully with this recipe.
- Is there a dipping sauce that pairs well with these hand pies?
- A tangy mustard, ketchup, or even a flavorful aioli can complement the rich flavors of the beef sausage hand pies.