Super Bowl Party Food Savory Hand Pies

Name: Super Bowl Party Food Savory Hand Pies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 hand pies
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/4 cup ice water; 2 cups cooked and diced chicken (or cooked beef/vegetables); 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1/2 cup diced onion; 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Special Kitchen

I absolutely love making savory hand pies for the Super Bowl! These delicious, flaky pastries filled with savory goodness are always a hit with my friends and family. Each bite brings a burst of flavor, and they’re easy to customize with different fillings, making them perfect for any crowd. I appreciate how simple they are to prepare, allowing me to enjoy the game instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Plus, they hold up well during the festivities, making them a fantastic finger food option for our big party.

Created by

Vanessa Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:57:34.417Z

I’ve spent years perfecting my savory hand pie recipe, and I can confidently say they’re the ideal party food! From experimenting with different crusts to perfecting the fillings, every step is a labor of love. Recently, I tried adding some spicy jalapeños to one batch, and it elevated the flavor to a whole new level!

The secret to a flaky crust is to keep your butter cold and not overwork the dough. I also recommend preparing the filling ahead of time so everything comes together quickly when it’s game day. Trust me, these hand pies will win you rave reviews!

        Why You'll Love These Hand Pies
        Golden, flaky crust that melts in your mouth
Versatile fillings to suit every taste
Perfect handheld food for game day
Can be made ahead and frozen for convenience

      

Crafting the Perfect Dough

The dough for these savory hand pies is crucial for achieving that flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Using chilled butter is key—this prevents the butter from fully melting into the flour during mixing, which is essential for creating those lovely layers. When you combine the flour and salt, aim for a consistency that resembles coarse crumbs before adding the ice water. This careful approach will ensure your crust is light and airy once baked.

Chilling the dough is not just for flavor; it also helps relax the gluten, resulting in a tender crust. If you find your dough is too crumbly when you try to form it into a disk, add a tablespoon of ice water at a time until it holds together. Be careful not to overwork it, as this will lead to a tough texture. After refrigerating for 30 minutes, you’ll notice it’s much easier to roll out.

Filling Variations and Tips

While this recipe features a chicken filling, you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For a heartier option, consider using ground beef or turkey, ensuring it’s fully cooked and well-seasoned before combining it with your cheese and vegetables. If you’re going for a vegetarian twist, roasted vegetables or even a mix of mushrooms and spinach can add robust flavor while keeping it satisfying.

The choice of cheese can also change the flavor profile significantly. Cheddar provides a sharp tang, while mozzarella lends a creamier texture. Don’t shy away from experimenting—try adding herbs like thyme or spices like paprika to amp up the flavor. Just remember to keep the filling balanced; too much liquid can make the hand pies soggy, so if you’re using vegetables, be sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture.

Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 cup ice water

For the Filling

2 cups cooked and diced chicken (or cooked beef/vegetables)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1/2 cup diced onion
1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Form into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together the diced chicken (or beef/vegetables), shredded cheese, diced onion, bell pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Assemble the Hand Pies

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough and cut it into circles (about 5 inches in diameter). Place a spoonful of filling on one half of each circle. Fold the dough over to cover the filling and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

Bake the Hand Pies

Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and flaky. Let cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top before baking for added flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

One of the best features of these hand pies is that they can be made ahead of time and frozen for convenience. After assembling the pies, instead of baking them, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer. Once they are frozen solid, you can transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored like this for up to three months and are perfect for impromptu gatherings or busy weeknights.

When you’re ready to bake, there's no need to thaw them first. Preheat your oven and simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. Keep an eye on them in the oven; they’re done when they’re golden brown and flaky on top, which is usually around the 25-30 minute mark for frozen pies.

Serving Suggestions

When serving these savory hand pies, consider accompanying them with a variety of dips for added fun and flavor. A tangy ranch or a creamy garlic dip can enhance the eating experience, while a spicy salsa or even guacamole introduces a refreshing twist. Serve them warm, straight from the oven, for the best texture; the flaky crust is at its peak when slightly cooled but still warm.

If you’re planning a larger gathering, these hand pies can easily be scaled up. Just double the recipe for dough and filling, and don’t forget to add a few more baking sheets to accommodate all the pies. They’re not only crowd-pleasers but also a great way to use up leftovers, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the hand pies, then freeze them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.

→ What fillings can I use for these pies?

You can get creative! Use cooked meats, vegetables, or even fruits for sweet hand pies. Popular choices include pulled pork, spinach and cheese, or mushrooms.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven for optimal crispiness.

→ Can I make the dough gluten-free?

Yes! Using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour works well for a gluten-free option.