Culinary Bliss: Crafting Easy Ground Beef Hand Pies

Step into the world of culinary delight with our Easy Ground Beef Hand Pies—a symphony of savory flavors encased in a golden, flaky crust. These handheld wonders are perfect for on-the-go meals, lunchbox surprises, or a delightful snack anytime. Filled with seasoned ground beef and your favorite ingredients, these hand pies are a testament to the joy of simple yet satisfying recipes. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey, unraveling the art of creating these portable pockets of deliciousness.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn), frozen or fresh
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Dough:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Ice water (approximately 1/4 cup)

For Assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Filling Preparation:

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
2. Brown Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned.
3. Vegetable Addition: Incorporate mixed vegetables, cooking until they are tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Sauce Infusion: Pour in tomato sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and let the mixture simmer until it thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Dough Creation:

1. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add cold, cubed butter.
2. Create Dough: Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Form it into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Assembly:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Cut Out Shapes: Using a round cutter, cut out circles from the dough. The size depends on your preference, but a 4-6 inch diameter works well.
4. Fill and Seal: Place a spoonful of the cooled beef mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape, and press the edges to seal.
5. Egg Wash and Top: Brush the tops of the hand pies with beaten egg. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds for an extra touch.
6. Bake to Golden Perfection: Arrange the hand pies on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown.

Cook Notes

• Dough Handling: Ensure the butter in the dough remains cold for a flaky crust. If it becomes too soft, refrigerate the dough for a short period before continuing.
• Customize Seasoning: Feel free to add herbs or spices to the beef filling, such as thyme, rosemary, or cumin, for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the filling and dough in advance, assembling and baking the hand pies when needed.

Variations

Cheesy Delight:

Add a layer of shredded cheese to the filling for an oozy, cheesy surprise when you bite into the hand pies.

Spicy Kick:

Incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the beef mixture for those who crave a bit of heat.

Mediterranean Twist:

Add olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Marvel:

Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour for the dough. Opt for a sugar-free tomato sauce and omit the carrots for a lower-carb option.

Low-Carb Bliss:

Use a low-carb baking mix for the dough and replace the tomato sauce with a low-carb alternative. Load up on non-starchy vegetables for the filling.

In the world of handheld delights, Easy Ground Beef Hand Pies reign supreme as a perfect blend of convenience and culinary excellence. From the flaky, buttery crust to the savory, well-seasoned beef filling, each bite is a journey into a world of satisfying flavors. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick meal option, a student craving a delicious snack, or someone who appreciates the art of portable cuisine, these hand pies are a versatile and delightful addition to your recipe repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of these golden beauties fill your kitchen. With Easy Ground Beef Hand Pies, culinary bliss is just a few simple steps away.