Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies

Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies are a delicious and satisfying treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers at a party or enjoying them as a hearty snack, these hand pies offer a delightful mix of savory flavors and flaky pastry. The combination of creamy cheese, sweet onions, and tender potatoes makes these hand pies irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These hand pies come together quickly with minimal prep time.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for parties, picnics, or a cozy night in.
• Flavorful Filling: The blend of cheese, onion, and potato creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Crispy Pastry: Flaky puff pastry adds the perfect crunch to every bite.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze some for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking while sautéing onions for easy cleanup.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth cream mixture without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 lb potatoes (yellow flesh recommended)
• 1 lb onions
• 1 tbsp butter
• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp all-purpose flour (plus extra as needed)
• ¾ tsp kosher salt (plus extra as needed)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 200 g cheddar cheese (shredded)

For Assembly

• 1 egg
• 4 sheets frozen puffed pastry (thawed)

How to Make Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and finely dice the potatoes into roughly 1/2-inch cubes.
2. Add the potatoes to a saucepan of water over high heat with a generous pinch of kosher salt.
3. Bring to a boil and cook until tender. Drain and cool before adding to filling.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

1. Peel and dice the onions.
2. In a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter.
3. Add the onions and a generous pinch of kosher salt; sauté until tender but not browned. Cool before adding to filling.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

1. In a bowl, combine heavy cream, Dijon mustard, flour, kosher salt, and pepper; whisk until smooth.
2. In another bowl, mix cooled potatoes, sautéed onions, and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Pour in the cream mixture; stir until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies

1. Whisk together an egg with a splash of water for egg wash.
2. Roll out one sheet of puff pastry, cutting it into six rectangles.
3. Brush edges with egg wash; place about 1/12th of filling on each rectangle.
4. Roll out another sheet of pastry; cover each filled rectangle with another piece.

Step 5: Bake the Hand Pies

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Arrange hand pies on sheets; brush tops with egg wash.
3. Cut three slits in each pie’s top for steam escape.
4. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and filling is bubbling.

Let cool briefly before serving your Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies! Enjoy this delicious snack that will surely impress your family and friends!

How to Serve Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies

Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies are delightful treats that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. You can enjoy them as a main course, snack, or even an appetizer at gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Sour Cream: A classic choice that adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
• Chutney: A sweet and spicy chutney complements the savory filling beautifully.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a kick, a drizzle of hot sauce will elevate the pies.

Serve with Fresh Salads

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
• Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw pairs well with the soft texture of the hand pies.
• Tomato Salad: Fresh tomatoes with basil and mozzarella create an appealing color contrast.

Add a Side of Soup

• Tomato Soup: This comforting soup is perfect for dipping your hand pies.
• Vegetable Broth: A light broth can balance the richness of the cheese-filled pies.

How to Perfect Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies

To ensure that your Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping your butter and puff pastry cold will help achieve flakiness in the crust.
• Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the hand pies to prevent spillage during baking.
• Seal Properly: Ensure edges are tightly sealed to keep the filling from leaking out while baking.
• Rotate Baking Sheets: If using multiple sheets in the oven, rotate them halfway through cooking for even browning.
• Let Cool Before Serving: Allowing them to cool slightly helps set the filling for easier handling.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies

Pairing side dishes with Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies can enhance your meal by adding variety. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens topped with your favorite dressing balances the richness of the pies.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes can complement the filling while providing extra heartiness.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing offers a crisp contrast to warm pies.
5. French Fries: Crispy fries add fun and familiarity alongside your hand pies; consider sweet potato fries for a twist!
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make for an indulgent side dish option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes when making Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies is crucial for a delicious outcome.

• Incorrect potato choice: Using high-starch potatoes can make the filling too mushy. Opt for yellow flesh potatoes for the best texture.
• Overcooking onions: Sautéing onions until browned can alter the flavor profile. Cook them just until tender to maintain their sweetness.
• Skipping cooling steps: Not allowing the filling to cool can lead to soggy pastry. Ensure both potatoes and onions are cooled before mixing with cheese.
• Improper pastry handling: Rolling puff pastry too thin may cause tearing. Keep it at a reasonable thickness for the best results.
• Neglecting egg wash application: Forgetting the egg wash will result in dull-looking pies. Brush the tops before baking for a golden finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days.

Freezing Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies

• Wrap each hand pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may result in a softer crust.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies.

Can I customize the filling of Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

What type of cheese works best for Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies?

Cheddar is a great choice due to its melting properties. However, you can experiment with gouda or mozzarella.

How do I prevent soggy bottom hand pies?

Ensure your filling is cool before assembling and use parchment paper on your baking sheets.

Can I use homemade pastry instead of store-bought?

Yes! If you prefer homemade pastry, just ensure it’s kept cold while working with it for the best flaky texture.

Final Thoughts

Cheese, Onion, and Potato Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them based on your preferences or dietary needs. So why not give this recipe a try? Enjoy these savory treats as a main course or snack!