Broccoli & Cheese Hand Pies

These homemade Broccoli & Cheese Hand Pies are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer, perfect for any occasion. With a crispy, golden crust and a creamy, flavorful filling made from broccoli, cheddar cheese, and sour cream, these hand pies are both savory and satisfying. Made using ready-made pie dough, this recipe is quick and convenient, making it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. These hand pies are a great choice for those looking for a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing lunch for the family, these Broccoli & Cheese Hand Pies will be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 head broccoli, grated
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 sheets ready-made pie dough
• 1 egg, plus 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and grated broccoli, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is crisp-tender.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined, then set aside to cool.
5. Roll out the ready-made pie dough and use a round cutter to cut 3-4 inch circles.
6. Place about 1 tablespoon of the broccoli and cheese mixture in the center of each dough round, being careful not to overfill.
7. Fold each dough circle in half to form a semi-circle, and press the edges together to seal. You can also use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the hand pies with the egg wash.
9. Place the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
10. Allow the hand pies to cool slightly before serving. This recipe yields about 24 hand pies.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These broccoli and cheese hand pies are a delicious and convenient snack or appetizer. The combination of creamy cheese and tender broccoli wrapped in a crispy, golden crust is a perfect bite-sized treat. Whether for a party, a quick snack, or a packed lunch, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

• Make it vegan: Substitute the cheddar cheese with dairy-free cheese and the sour cream with a plant-based alternative.
• Add protein: For extra richness, add cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage to the filling.
• Spices: Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or nutmeg for a flavorful twist.
• Dough: If you don’t have ready-made pie dough, you can use puff pastry or crescent roll dough as an alternative.
• Storage: These hand pies can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and they reheat well in the oven.

FAQs

• Can I freeze these hand pies? Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place the filled and sealed hand pies on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. To bake, follow the same instructions, adding a few extra minutes of baking time.
• Can I use other vegetables? Yes, other vegetables such as spinach, kale, or mushrooms can be substituted for the broccoli.

Serving

Serve these hand pies as a tasty appetizer, a party snack, or as a side dish with a fresh salad or soup. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch, hot sauce, or garlic aioli.

Suggestions

• For a twist on flavor, try adding caramelized onions or roasted garlic to the filling.
• Serving with a dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce or a creamy ranch dressing can elevate the dish further.