There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of a golden, flaky crust giving way to a savory filling packed with seasoned beef, melty provolone, and vibrant veggies. As the rich aroma wafts through your home, you’ll be transported to the streets of Philly, but without the fuss of navigating a crowded shop. I fell in love with these Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies on a busy weeknight when I needed a quick, delicious meal that didn’t skimp on flavor.
What I love most is their versatility; whether you’re hosting game day or simply need a cozy snack to enjoy in front of the TV, these hand pies are a hit. You can make them ahead of time or whip them up on a whim—each bite is a comforting nod to the classic cheesesteak. With minimal effort, you can impress family and friends while satisfying those home-cooked cravings. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that brings together convenience and heartwarming flavors!
Why are these Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies special?
Convenience at its finest: These hand pies are perfect for busy weeknights, as they can be easily prepared in advance and stored for quick meals.
Savory goodness: Each bite is a flavor explosion, combining juicy ground beef, melty provolone, and fresh veggies, giving you the ultimate comfort food experience.
Versatile snacks: Enjoy them at parties, game days, or as a cozy movie night treat. They please any crowd!
Easy reheating: Simply pop them in the oven or microwave for a delicious snack anytime.
Customizable flavors: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, like mushrooms or different cheeses, for a personalized touch. Explore more ways to freshen up your meals with these make-ahead meal ideas.
Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies Ingredients
For the Filling
- Ground Beef – Provides the main protein and savory flavor; can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Chopped Onions – Adds sweetness and depth; use yellow or white onions, or shallots for a milder taste.
- Chopped Green Peppers – Introduces a slight crunch and fresh flavor; red or yellow peppers can be used for a sweeter profile.
- Provolone Cheese – Offers a creamy, melty texture that enhances the flavor; substitute with mozzarella or a cheese blend if desired.
- Beef Broth – Keeps the filling moist and flavorful; chicken broth can be an alternative or omit for a less intense flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami depth to the filling; soy sauce can serve as a substitute but may alter the flavor slightly.
- Cornstarch – Used to thicken the filling; can be replaced with flour if not available.
For the Pie Crust
- Refrigerated Pie Crusts – Offers a quick, flaky exterior; homemade pie crust can be made for a fresher taste, or use a gluten-free version if needed.
- Egg (beaten) – Acts as an egg wash for a golden finish; optional for a vegetarian version.
With these Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies ingredients, you’re set to create a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies
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Prepare Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and green peppers in a splash of olive oil until soft, about 5 minutes. Then add the ground beef, cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes, and mix in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and cornstarch. Stir until thickened and set aside.
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Make Hand Pies: Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Cut them into circles using a large cookie cutter or a bowl. Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto each circle, then sprinkle with shredded provolone. Fold the crust over, press the edges together, and seal securely with a fork.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a shining finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.
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Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the hand pies cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the delightful aroma as they cool!
Optional: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies?
Offering a cozy and comfortable meal, these hand pies are full of flavors and textures that deserve the perfect accompaniments.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: These savory wedges make for a delightful side, complementing the flaky hand pies with their crispy texture and flavor.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad drizzled with vinaigrette provides a bright contrast to the rich, hearty filling, cleansing the palate with each bite.
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Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: This indulgent classic pairs beautifully, creating a comforting duo that’s sure to satisfy those cheesy cravings.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized and tender, roasted veggies add both color and a nutritious balance to the meal, enriching your plate with their natural sweetness.
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Homemade Dipping Sauces: Ketchup, ranch, or even a spicy mustard can elevate each bite and provide a delightful twist, inviting everyone to personalize their plate.
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Craft Beer or Cider: A refreshing beer or a crisp hard cider complements the savory flavors perfectly, making your snack time feel like a casual feast.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish your meal with these timeless cookies, offering a sweet, chewy contrast to the rich, savory hand pies for a well-rounded experience.
With these delicious pairings, you can transform your Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies into a fulfilling feast that delights the senses!
How to Store and Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly baked Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, they should be stored to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store baked hand pies in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for that freshly made taste.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze unbaked pies before brushing with egg wash. They can be kept for up to 3 months; simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to your baking time.
Reheating: Reheat refrigerated hand pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies Variations
Embrace the fun of customizing your Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies with these enticing ideas!
- Dairy-Free: Swap provolone for a dairy-free cheese alternative to make these hand pies suitable for lactose intolerant guests.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace ground beef with mushrooms and lentils for a hearty, meatless filling without sacrificing flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for an extra burst of heat that ignites the palate.
- Southern Twist: Incorporate some sautéed mushrooms along with the beef for an earthy flavor profile that enhances the overall richness of the filling.
- Cheesy Variation: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique flavor twist that caters to cheese lovers.
- Sweet Touch: Mix in a touch of caramelized onions for a hint of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory filling.
- Herbaceous Infusion: Add fresh herbs like oregano or thyme to the filling for an aromatic and refreshing note throughout each bite.
- Crunchy Add-In: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale for a nutritious boost without compromising the delicious cheesesteak essence.
Feel free to mix and match these variations, letting your creativity shine through each delectable hand pie!
Expert Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies
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Season Well: Ensure the ground beef is well-seasoned to enhance the flavor profile. Don’t shy away from adding extra spices if you love bold tastes!
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Avoid Sogginess: Take care not to overcook the filling; a soggy filling can lead to a disappointing crust and diminish the beloved flakiness.
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Secure Edges: Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges tightly, preventing any fillings from leaking during baking—and trust me, you want every bite of those cheesy flavors!
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Cooling Time: Allow the Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies to cool slightly before serving; this ensures the filling sets up a bit and keeps you from burning your tongue!
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Customize Flavors: Feel free to mix in additional ingredients like mushrooms or assorted cheeses to give your hand pies a unique spin. Explore new taste dimensions with every batch!
Make Ahead Options
These Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time during busy weekdays! You can prepare the filling—sautéing the onions, peppers, and browning the beef—up to 3 days in advance. Simply let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also assemble the hand pies but leave them unbaked in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Remember to brush with the egg wash just before baking to achieve that golden finish—this simple prep makes sure your hand pies are just as delicious and satisfying when you heat them up!
Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe vegetables for my Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies?
Absolutely! When selecting vegetables, look for crisp, vibrant green peppers and fresh onions that have no visible dark spots or blemishes. They should feel firm to the touch. For the best flavor, choose onions that are heavy for their size and have tight, papery skins.
What are the best ways to store Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies?
Store baked Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and delicious! Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing them in the container to avoid condensation, which can make the crust soggy.
Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies?
Definitely! To freeze, prepare the hand pies but do not brush them with the egg wash. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What should I do if my filling is too wet or runny?
If you find your filling is too wet, try adding a little more cornstarch while it’s cooking to help thicken it. Cook it for an extra few minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Make sure the beef is adequately browned, and the broth is fully absorbed before filling the crusts to prevent sogginess.
Are there any dietary considerations for making Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies?
Yes! To accommodate gluten-free diets, use gluten-free pie crusts available at most grocery stores. For dairy allergies, consider using dairy-free cheese alternatives. Always double-check labels for allergens, especially for Worcestershire sauce, as some brands may contain gluten or other allergens.
How long can I keep the hand pies at room temperature?
You can enjoy the freshly baked Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it’s best to store them in the fridge to maintain their deliciousness and avoid any food safety issues!
Savory Philly Cheesesteak Hand Pies for Quick Comfort Snacks
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and green peppers in a splash of olive oil until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes, then mix in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and cornstarch. Stir until thickened and set aside.
- Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut them into circles using a large cookie cutter or a bowl.
- Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto each circle, then sprinkle with shredded provolone.
- Fold the crust over, press the edges together, and seal securely with a fork.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a shining finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.
- Remove from the oven and let the hand pies cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick if desired.