Broccoli Cheddar Hand Pies: Delicious and Easy Recipe for a Perfect Snack

Broccoli Cheddar Hand Pies are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring comfort and convenience to any meal. As a fan of savory pastries, I can’t help but be drawn to these golden, flaky pockets filled with a creamy blend of broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese. Originating from the classic hand pie tradition, which has roots in various cultures around the world, these little delights have become a favorite in many households, including mine.

What I love most about Broccoli Cheddar Hand Pies is their versatility; they can be enjoyed as a quick snack, a hearty lunch, or even a satisfying dinner option. The combination of tender broccoli and rich cheddar creates a taste that is both comforting and indulgent, while the crispy crust adds a satisfying texture that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Join me as we dive into the world of Broccoli Cheddar Hand Pies and discover how to create this delicious dish in your own kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 package (1 lb) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade if you prefer)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Preparing the Filling

1. **Sauté the Vegetables**: In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. 2. **Add the Broccoli**: Toss in the chopped broccoli florets. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender but still bright green. You want to maintain some crunch for texture. 3. **Mix in the Cheeses**: Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed broccoli mixture with the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well incorporated. 4. **Season the Filling**: Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the cheese and broccoli mixture. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Set the filling aside to cool completely while you prepare the pie crusts.

Preparing the Pie Crusts

5. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your hand pies bake evenly and get that lovely golden color. 6. **Roll Out the Pie Crusts**: If you’re using refrigerated pie crusts, unroll them on a lightly floured surface. If you’re making your own crust, roll it out to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a bowl to cut out circles about 5-6 inches in diameter. 7. **Gather the Scraps**: Don’t throw away the scraps! You can re-roll them to make additional pie crust circles if needed.

Assembling the Hand Pies

8. **Fill the Crusts**: Take one of the pie crust circles and place about 2 tablespoons of the broccoli and cheese filling in the center. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing the pies difficult. 9. **Seal the Pies**: Fold the pie crust over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure they are well sealed. 10. **Repeat**: Continue this process with the remaining pie crust circles and filling until everything is used up. You should have about 8-10 hand pies, depending on the size of your circles.

Preparing for Baking

11. **Egg Wash**: Place the assembled hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops of each pie with the beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden color when baked. 12. **Make Slits**: Using a sharp knife, make a few small slits on the top of each pie. This allows steam to escape during baking and prevents them from bursting.

Baking the Hand Pies

13. **Bake**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the hand pies are golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure they don’t over-bake. 14. **Cool**: Once baked, remove the hand pies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This will make them easier to handle.

Serving Suggestions

15. **Serve Warm**: These broccoli cheddar hand pies are best enjoyed warm. You can serve them as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. They pair wonderfully with a side salad or a bowl of soup. 16. **Storage**: If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey into the world of Broccoli Cheddar Hand Pies, I can confidently say that this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their snack game or impress guests at their next gathering. The combination of tender, flaky pastry and the rich, creamy filling of broccoli and cheddar creates a flavor explosion that is both comforting and satisfying. Plus, they are incredibly versatile! You can serve them as a hearty appetizer, a side dish alongside a fresh salad, or even as a main course paired with a warm bowl of soup. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some cooked chicken or crumbled bacon to the filling for an extra protein boost, or switch up the cheese with a sharp gouda or pepper jack for a spicy twist. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. The possibilities are endless! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Broccoli Cheddar Hand Pies recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made them, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you stick to the classic recipe, or did you put your own spin on it? Share your thoughts and any variations you tried in the comments below or on social media. Let’s spread the joy of these delicious hand pies together! Happy baking! Print