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 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 6-8 tbsp cold water; 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 cup cheese (cheddar or your choice), shredded; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Food Collection

I love hosting Super Bowl parties, and these savory hand pies have become a game-time favorite in my home. The flaky pastry envelops a flavorful filling that combines savory meats and veggies, making them the ultimate finger food. Every time I serve these, guests can’t resist coming back for more! They are easy to make ahead of time, and I enjoy customizing the filling to match my family's preferences. If you want something delicious that pairs well with game-day excitement, these hand pies definitely fit the bill.

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:29:35.537Z

When I first started making these savory hand pies, I experimented with various fillings, testing combinations until I found the perfect mix of flavors. The trick to achieving a great crust is using chilled butter and not overworking the dough. I discovered that a simple egg wash before baking gives them that beautiful golden-brown finish that everyone loves.

During one memorable party, I served these alongside spicy dipping sauces, and they were the star of the show! Guests were thrilled to create their unique flavor pairings, and it turned into a delightful interactive experience. It’s moments like these that remind me of why cooking for friends and family is so rewarding!

        Reasons You'll Love These Hand Pies
        Portable and easy to eat while watching the game
Versatile fillings mean you can customize them for any taste
Flaky and buttery crust that's simply irresistible

      

Perfecting the Hand Pie Technique

To achieve that ideal flaky texture in hand pies, ensuring your butter is perfectly chilled is crucial. The cold butter creates steam as it melts during baking, which results in those delightful flaky layers. When mixing the butter into the flour, be careful not to overwork the dough; you want to see small bits of butter throughout the mixture. This will help in achieving a tender crust that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling.

Rolling out the dough presents an opportunity to keep your hand pies consistent in size. Aim for circles that are between 4-5 inches; this size strikes a perfect balance between being bite-sized and ensuring enough filling per pie. When sealing the edges, press them firmly with a fork to avoid any leaks during baking. If you find your edges aren’t sealing, a touch of cold water on your fingers can help bind the dough better.

Flavor Profile and Customization

The filling is where these hand pies truly shine, allowing for endless customization. I often swap out chicken for turkey or even roast vegetables for a vegetarian option. Adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor, while spicy elements like jalapeños or sriracha can cater to those who enjoy a kick. If you're short on time, pre-cooked meats work wonderfully, too; just ensure they're chopped finely to mix evenly.

Cheese choice can also significantly alter the taste. While cheddar is a classic option, trying mozzarella or pepper jack can provide a different flavor dimension. If you choose a stronger cheese, like blue cheese, use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the other ingredients. Don't forget to consider ingredient freshness—fresh spinach can add a vibrant color and flavor, while wilted greens may compromise the overall appearance and taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious savory hand pies:

For the Dough

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

For the Filling

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 cup cheese (cheddar or your choice), shredded
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your savory hand pies:

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, chopped spinach, shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

Assemble the Hand Pies

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to about ⅛ inch thick. Cut out circles using a 4-5 inch round cutter. Place 1-2 tablespoons of filling on one half of each circle. Fold over and seal the edges with a fork. Repeat with remaining dough.

Bake the Hand Pies

Transfer the hand pies to a lined baking sheet. Beat the egg and brush over the tops of the pies. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, mix some hot sauce into the filling. Feel free to experiment with different meats and veggies based on your preferences.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These savory hand pies can be made ahead of time, making them a fantastic option for busy game days. After assembling the hand pies, you can freeze them before baking. Simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, you can go straight from the freezer to the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

If you find yourself with leftover hand pies, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is best done in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method ensures the crust remains crispy while allowing the filling to heat through. Microwaving can lead to a soggy crust, which is not the desired result for these flaky treats.

Serving Suggestions

Serving these hand pies warm adds to their appeal, especially during a lively Super Bowl party. Consider pairing them with dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mustard for added flavor. I find that a tangy sauce complements the savory filling perfectly and provides a delightful contrast to the buttery crust.

For a complete snack table, consider incorporating a variety of hand pie flavors alongside veggie platters, chips, or layered dips. This allows guests to mix and match while keeping the finger food theme in line. You can even set up a 'build-your-own' station, giving guests the freedom to choose from different fillings for their hand pies, making it a fun interactive experience during the event.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the hand pies ahead of time?

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

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can switch up the filling to include ground beef, mushrooms, or lentils for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to season your filling well.

→ How do I store leftover hand pies?

Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I make the dough gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free version of these hand pies.