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 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1/4 cup cold water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Everyday Collection

I love creating delicious and easy-to-eat snacks for the Super Bowl, and savory hand pies are always a hit! These little pastries are perfect for celebrating with friends, making them an ideal choice for game day. With a flaky crust filled with a flavorful mixture of meats, cheeses, and spices, they're both satisfying and fun to eat. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and served warm or at room temperature, which is a major win when hosting a party. Let’s dive into how to make these irresistible treats!

Created by

Lottie Pennington

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:25:34.750Z

When I first made these savory hand pies for a Super Bowl party, I was amazed at how quickly they disappeared! The combination of flavors from the various fillings really gets everyone talking. I opted for a mix of shredded chicken, cheese, and spices, tailored to my family's tastes. Experimenting with your favorite ingredients can create something special that your guests will remember.

One of the best tips I discovered is to ensure that the filling is not overly moist. This prevents the crust from getting soggy. I also love brushing them with egg wash before baking, which gives the hand pies a gorgeous golden color that enhances their appetizing appeal. Trust me, these pies will be the MVP of your game day spread!

        Why You'll Love These Hand Pies
        Flaky, homemade crust that practically melts in your mouth
Versatile fillings that can be customized to suit any taste
Convenient for parties—easy to grab and eat while cheering

      

The Art of a Flaky Crust

Creating the perfect crust for your hand pies is crucial, as it sets the foundation for the entire dish. The key is using cold ingredients, particularly the unsalted butter. I recommend cutting the butter into the flour until you see pea-sized clumps, which will ensure a flaky texture. If the butter warms up too much, your crust may end up dense instead of light and airy, so work quickly and keep everything chilled.

A double-layered approach to your dough can be beneficial if you want extra flakiness. Consider making a batch of dough, then folding it over on itself a few times before refrigerating. This technique introduces layers that will puff up during baking, providing that melt-in-your-mouth quality that everyone loves. Just remember to maintain the twice-chilled process: chilled dough makes for a better crust.

Filling Variations and Tips

While this recipe features chicken, bacon, and cheddar, the filling possibilities for hand pies are endless! For a vegetarian option, try incorporating sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta cheese. They complement the flaky crust well and offer a delicious alternative that is just as satisfying. If you're looking for a bit of spice, consider adding jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the filling.

If you have leftovers from a roast or BBQ, those can be transformed into the perfect hand pie filling. Just make sure to chop everything into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. When using moist ingredients, like cooked beef or gravy, be cautious about adding too much liquid to your filling, as this could make the pies soggy. A sprinkle of flour or cornstarch on the filling can help absorb excess moisture.

Make-Ahead and Serving Suggestions

One of the great things about savory hand pies is their make-ahead versatility. You can prepare them completely, freeze them after assembling, and bake straight from the freezer. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to your baking time, ensuring they reach a golden brown color and are heated through. This method makes them an excellent choice for busy game day preparation!

When serving hand pies, consider a dipping sauce or two to elevate the experience. A tangy barbecue sauce or a creamy ranch dressing pairs wonderfully with these baked delights. Arrange them on a platter alongside your dips for a vibrant presentation. You can also garnish the platter with fresh herbs to add a pop of color and freshness, giving your party spread an attractive touch.

Ingredients

For the crust

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

For the filling

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Prepare the crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together. Divide into two portions, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Make the filling

In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Roll out the dough

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out one portion of dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles about 5 inches in diameter.

Assemble the hand pies

Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.

Bake

Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to your filling. These hand pies freeze well, so you can prepare them ahead of time and bake from frozen when needed.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your hand pies aren't sealing properly, it's likely that the edges of the dough are too dry. Try brushing a little cold water or beaten egg along the edges before pressing to seal. This will help the crust stick together and keep all the delicious filling inside while baking. Remember, a proper seal is essential to prevent leaks and ensure a beautiful presentation.

In the event that your crust is overly tough after baking, it might be due to overworking the dough. Always handle the crust gently and avoid extensive kneading. If you notice this happening, consider chilling your dough a bit longer next time; a well-chilled dough is more forgiving and less likely to toughen up during shaping.

Scaling the Recipe

This hand pie recipe is quite easy to scale up for a larger gathering. Simply multiply your ingredients by the number of pies you need. Keep in mind, the baking time may need adjustments if you’re baking multiple trays at once. Bake them in batches if you're limited to one baking sheet to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven baking.

Alternatively, if you're looking to make fewer hand pies, you can easily halve the recipe. Just remember to keep the egg wash consistent, as it helps achieve that desirable golden brown finish. Always make extra dough, as you might want to experiment with different fillings or have a few pies for later!

Storage and Reheating

Once you make your hand pies, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer to preserve them longer, feel free to freeze your baked pies. Just make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer!

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen hand pies, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy. A quick oven reheating helps restore that lovely flaky texture, making your hand pies just as delicious as the day they were made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pastry instead of making my own?

Absolutely! Store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield delicious results.

→ What are some other filling ideas?

Feel free to experiment with ground beef, mushrooms, or even vegetarian options like spinach and feta.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep the hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein and use vegan cheese and butter for the crust.