These Sloppy Joe Hand Pies are a perfect fusion of savory, hearty filling and buttery, flaky crust. They are the ideal bite-sized treat for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying them as a quick dinner or serving them at a party. The tender beef filling, spiced with Worcestershire sauce and mustard, brings out rich flavors that are perfectly complemented by the crispy, golden pastry.
These hand pies are incredibly versatile and can be made ahead of time for an easy lunch or dinner option. The filling can even be customized by adding vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, and the hand pies are great for freezing, so you can always have a batch on hand when you need a delicious, comforting snack or meal in a pinch.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef
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1/2 onion, finely chopped
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1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup ketchup
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
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Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
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Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool for about 10 minutes.
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Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Cut each into 4 equal squares.
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Place a spoonful of the sloppy joe filling in the center of each pie crust square.
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Fold the edges of the crust over the filling, forming a triangle or rectangle, and press the edges to seal.
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Brush the tops of the hand pies with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
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Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.
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Let the hand pies cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 8 hand pies
The Origins of Sloppy Joe Hand Pies
The traditional Sloppy Joe has been a staple in American comfort food for decades. Originating in the early 20th century, its exact origins are often debated, with some claiming it was created by a cook named Joe in a small diner, while others attribute it to a chef at a restaurant in Iowa. Regardless of where it started, the sandwich soon became beloved for its hearty, savory filling and its easy-to-make appeal.
Hand pies, on the other hand, are an even older concept, dating back to ancient times. Cultures around the world have enjoyed versions of these hand-held pastries, from British Cornish pasties to Asian potstickers. The idea of combining the sloppy joe with a hand pie was born from the desire to make this classic dish more portable and easy to eat on the go. These hand pies give you the best of both worlds: the rich, meaty filling of a sloppy joe and the crispy, buttery crunch of a pie crust.
Why Sloppy Joe Hand Pies Are Perfect for Meal Prep and Parties
One of the best things about Sloppy Joe Hand Pies is how easily they fit into various occasions. Whether you’re preparing a fun snack for a family movie night or need an easy-to-serve appetizer for a party, these hand pies are the perfect solution. You can make a big batch in advance and keep them in the fridge or freezer for later use. When it’s time to eat, simply bake them until golden and serve them hot—ideal for busy nights when you need something quick and delicious.
At parties, these hand pies make an excellent finger food option, providing a handheld version of a classic comfort dish. Guests will love the crispy crust and the savory, tangy filling inside. You can even offer dipping sauces, such as ranch or ketchup, to elevate the flavor experience and give people a variety of ways to enjoy them.
Different Ways to Customize Your Sloppy Joe Hand Pies
While the classic Sloppy Joe filling is a delicious combination of ground beef, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard, there are endless ways to personalize your hand pies. You can swap out the ground beef for other meats like ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian or vegan option. The seasonings can also be adjusted to your personal taste. If you love a bit of heat, adding chili powder, jalapeños, or hot sauce will kick up the spice level. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of mustard or Worcestershire sauce.
For an extra twist, you can add veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or corn to the filling. These ingredients not only boost the flavor but also add texture and nutrition to your hand pies. Some people also like to incorporate cheese into the filling, such as shredded cheddar or mozzarella, which melts beautifully inside the flaky crust.
Another variation includes swapping the traditional pie crust for puff pastry for an even flakier, more buttery texture. You could also try using whole-wheat pie crusts for a healthier alternative or gluten-free crusts to accommodate dietary restrictions. This flexibility ensures that no matter your preferences or dietary needs, you can make these hand pies your own.
Serving Suggestions: Pairing Sloppy Joe Hand Pies with Sides and Dips
When it comes to serving these Sloppy Joe Hand Pies, there are plenty of options for pairing them with side dishes and sauces. For a simple and well-rounded meal, pair the hand pies with a fresh salad, such as a classic Caesar salad or a leafy green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The crunch and freshness of the salad offer a nice contrast to the rich, savory flavor of the hand pies.
If you’re looking for something more indulgent, crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, or even onion rings make fantastic accompaniments. These fried sides pair perfectly with the crunchy exterior of the hand pies and provide a satisfying contrast in textures.
For dipping, classic condiments like ketchup and mustard are always a hit. However, you could also try something more exciting, such as a tangy barbecue sauce, spicy sriracha mayo, or creamy ranch dressing. The right dip can take your hand pies to the next level and provide a fun variety of flavors to complement the savory filling.
How to Make Sloppy Joe Hand Pies Ahead of Time
Sloppy Joe Hand Pies are incredibly easy to make in advance. If you’re hosting a party or preparing a meal for the week, these pies can be baked ahead of time, then stored in the refrigerator or freezer. To store them in the fridge, allow the hand pies to cool completely after baking, then place them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes until they’re warm and crispy again.
If you want to freeze them, follow the same steps as above, but after cooling, place the hand pies on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for about an hour before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents them from sticking together. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake the frozen hand pies directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
Why Sloppy Joe Hand Pies Are a Great Option for Busy Families
For busy families, Sloppy Joe Hand Pies offer a convenient and fun way to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Since they can be made ahead and stored for later, they’re perfect for those nights when time is tight. Simply heat them up and serve with your favorite side dish for an easy, satisfying dinner. Kids will also love the handheld nature of these pies, making them a great option for lunches, after-school snacks, or picnics.
Conclusion: A Crowd-Pleasing, Versatile Dish
Sloppy Joe Hand Pies offer a creative and portable twist on a classic comfort food, making them the perfect choice for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a meal for the week, or just looking for a quick dinner option, these hand pies are sure to be a hit. With their crispy, flaky crust and savory filling, they provide a satisfying combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Plus, their versatility means you can customize the filling to suit your preferences and dietary needs, making them a dish that can be enjoyed by all. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make this recipe your own. The next time you’re in need of a comforting, delicious meal, Sloppy Joe Hand Pies are the way to go.