In the midst of a chaotic week, nothing brings comfort like the warm aroma of freshly baked pies wafting through the kitchen. These Savory Hand Pies have become my go-to recipe for when I need a hearty meal that doesn’t require hours of prep time. Comforting yet sophisticated, they are perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a cozy night in. With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you'll have crispy, golden pastries filled with a rich blend of mushrooms, thyme, and cream that is utterly irresistible. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, making them an excellent choice for meal prep! Whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, I am sure you'll fall in love with these little pockets of joy. What's your favorite filling for hand pies?
Why Are These Hand Pies Irresistible?
Simplicity at its best: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll create gourmet hand pies without the fuss.
Rich, savory flavor: The combination of caramelized onions, earthy mushrooms, and fresh thyme delivers a taste that will make your taste buds dance.
Versatile delight: Feel free to mix and match fillings, from meats to veggies, to suit your cravings.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch in advance and freeze for quick meals on busy nights—simply pop them in the oven!
Family-friendly: Whether for a cozy dinner or party snacks, these hand pies are sure to please everyone at your table.
Enjoy the delight of homemade comfort with this easy, delicious recipe!
Savory Hand Pies Ingredients
For the Filling
• Olive oil – adds richness and flavor to your filling.
• Unsalted butter – enhances the savory taste and creates a luscious texture.
• Yellow onion – caramelizes beautifully to bring out its natural sweetness.
• Mushrooms (cremini or button) – provide an earthy depth; use your favorites!
• Garlic – offers an aromatic punch to the savory hand pies.
• Fresh thyme leaves or dried thyme – infuse the filling with a fragrant herbaceous note.
• Salt and black pepper – essential for balancing flavors; adjust to your taste.
• All-purpose flour – helps thicken the filling to keep it from becoming too runny.
• Vegetable broth or water – gives moisture; broth adds more flavor.
• Heavy cream or full-fat milk – contributes creaminess that brings it all together.
For the Pastry
• Frozen puff pastry – effortlessly creates a flaky, golden crust; thaw for easy handling.
• Egg – for the egg wash, giving a glossy finish that's simply irresistible.
For Garnish
• Fresh thyme sprigs – add a pop of color and extra flavor when serving.
• Sea salt flakes – sprinkle on top for a fancy touch and a hint of brininess.
These Savory Hand Pies are versatile and delightful; you can even switch up the filling based on your cravings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Savory Hand Pies
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced, and sauté for 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the onions are beautifully caramelized and golden brown, releasing their sweet aroma; this forms the savory base for your hand pies.
Step 2: Add Mushrooms and Seasonings
Stir in 2 cups of finely chopped mushrooms, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried), and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Continue to sauté for 6 to 8 minutes, cooking until the mushrooms release their moisture and it evaporates, creating a rich filling for your savory hand pies.
Step 3: Thicken the Filling
Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour while stirring the mixture, cooking for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Pour in ⅓ cup of vegetable broth or water and ¼ cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously. Let the filling simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens nicely. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Puff Pastry
While the filling cools, roll out the two sheets of thawed frozen puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 6 squares, each measuring about 3x3 inches. This will provide the perfect canvas for each savory hand pie, allowing the delicious filling to shine through.
Step 5: Assemble the Hand Pies
Place 1 to 1½ tablespoons of the cooled filling onto one half of each pastry square. Brush the edges of the pastry with water to help seal the pies. Fold the other half over the filling, pressing down gently to encase it. Use a fork to crimp the edges, creating a decorative seal that keeps all the savory goodness inside your hand pies.
Step 6: Egg Wash and Season
Brush the tops of the assembled savory hand pies with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden finish while baking. For added flavor and fanciness, sprinkle a little sea salt flakes and a few fresh thyme leaves on top before they head into the oven.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then lay out the savory hand pies on it, ensuring they're spaced evenly. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until they are puffed up, golden brown, and irresistibly aromatic. Keep an eye on them as they bake to achieve that perfect crust.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the savory hand pies from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes on a wire rack. This brief cooling time allows the filling to set slightly, making them easier to handle. Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh thyme sprigs for garnish, and delight in these cozy little pockets of joy!
Savory Hand Pies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity by customizing these delightful hand pies with your favorite ingredients and tastes!
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Vegan Swap: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use plant-based butter for a delicious vegan version!
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for an exciting heat that’ll warm you up inside.
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, for an ooey-gooey filling that takes comfort food to a whole new level.
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Herb Infusion: Swap thyme for fresh rosemary or basil to give a unique twist and fragrant aroma to your savory hand pies.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry for a friendly alternative that allows everyone to enjoy these tasty treats without worry.
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Extra Veggies: Sneak in some finely chopped spinach or kale to boost the nutrient content while adding delightful greens to the filling.
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Savory Meat: Enhance the filling by adding cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage for a heartier, protein-packed version that’s sure to satisfy.
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Sweet & Savory: For a unique flair, toss in a spoonful of fruit preserves, like fig or apricot, to balance the savory flavor with a hint of sweetness.
These variations are the perfect way to make these Savory Hand Pies your own and cater to your family's tastes!
How to Store and Freeze Savory Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Keep baked savory hand pies at room temperature for up to 1 day. Place them in a single layer on a plate covered with a kitchen towel to preserve their crispiness.
Fridge: Store any leftover savory hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to regain their golden crunch.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked savory hand pies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until heated through.
Reheating: To reheat, place the savory hand pies on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes. This method keeps the pastry flaky and delicious!
What to Serve with Savory Hand Pies
Nothing elevates a delightful meal more than thoughtfully chosen pairings that complement each other beautifully.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic pairing enhances the richness of the hand pies with refreshing acidity. The warm, velvety soup takes cozy comfort food to another level.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast and balances the savory flavor of the hand pies. Toss in seasonal veggies for an extra burst of freshness!
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Garlic Bread: The delicious crunch of garlic bread contrasts perfectly with the flaky pastry. It’s an all-time favorite, bringing more warmth to your dining table.
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Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies provide a healthy, nutrient-packed side. Their caramelization enhances natural sweetness, creating a harmonious balance with the earthy pie filling.
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Herbed Quinoa: This protein-rich side dish adds a nutty texture and can soak up extra flavors from sauces or dressings. Quinoa’s fluffy goodness nicely complements the hand pies’ heft.
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Chill White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a floral Pinot Grigio can be the perfect accompaniment, enhancing the flavors of the filling while providing a refreshing contrast.
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Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse. Its airy texture offers a decadent balance after the savory explosion of the hand pies.
These pairings will take your hand pie experience from tasty to unforgettable, ensuring a well-rounded and delightful meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Hand Pies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance—simply cool it completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pastry can also be prepped ahead; just assemble the hand pies without baking and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to enjoy them, brush the tops with an egg wash and bake straight from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time for best results. This way, you’ll have delectable, homemade hand pies ready with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Savory Hand Pies
• Cool the Filling: Make sure the filling is completely cooled before assembling the hand pies to prevent a soggy crust.
• Seal Well: Brush edges with water and press firmly to seal; this helps avoid leaks during baking.
• Egg Wash: Don’t skip the egg wash! It gives your savory hand pies a beautiful, golden-brown finish.
• Space Them Out: Leave enough space on the baking sheet to allow puff pastry to rise and become flaky; avoid overcrowding!
• Variability: Feel free to swap in different veggies or proteins in your filling. The possibilities for savory hand pies are endless!
These tips will help ensure that your savory hand pies turn out perfectly every time!
Savory Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right mushrooms for savory hand pies?
For savory hand pies, I recommend using cremini or button mushrooms as they have a wonderful texture and flavor. Make sure the mushrooms are firm and free from dark spots or moisture. If you want to experiment, portobello mushrooms can add a heartier taste!
What is the best way to store leftover savory hand pies?
Store any leftover savory hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain that delicious crispiness, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy them freshly baked again!
Can I freeze savory hand pies, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze baked savory hand pies, allow them to cool completely first. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat them from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
What if my filling is too runny for the savory hand pies?
If your filling ends up too runny, worry not! You can thicken it by simmering it longer or adding more flour. If you find yourself in a pinch mid-cooking, try mixing a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and then stir it into the filling to thicken it up quickly.
Can I make these savory hand pies vegan-friendly?
Yes! To make vegan savory hand pies, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based alternative, use a vegan butter alternative, and skip the egg wash on the pastry. You can brush the tops with almond or soy milk instead for a nice shine.
How long can I keep frozen savory hand pies before they lose quality?
Frozen savory hand pies can be kept for up to 2 months before their quality diminishes. For best taste and texture, try to use them within this period. The more the merrier when it comes to enjoying these delightful creations!
Easy Savory Hand Pies for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil and unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté sliced onion until caramelized, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Add chopped mushrooms, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper; continue to sauté for 6 to 8 minutes.
- Stir in flour, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes; add broth and cream. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until thickened.
- Roll out thawed pastry sheets and cut into 6 squares each.
- Place filling on one half of each pastry square. Brush edges with water and fold over, sealing with a fork.
- Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with salt and thyme before baking.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before serving.
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