Shepherd’s Hand Pies take all the cozy, nostalgic flavors of traditional shepherd’s pie and wrap them in a crisp, flaky pastry shell. A buttery crust encases a savory filling of seasoned ground beef, tender carrots, sweet peas, and fluffy mashed potatoes, all enhanced with warm spices and fresh herbs. These handheld treats are perfect for an easy dinner, meal prepping, or an on-the-go snack. Served with a creamy horseradish sauce for an extra kick, these pies are comfort food at its best! Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just craving a hearty homemade meal, these hand pies deliver rich flavor in a portable, satisfying package.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 sheets store-bought pie crust
- 4 oz instant mashed potatoes, prepared
- 1 tsp black pepper, divided
- 1 lb ground beef (90/10 or lean)
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 2 Tbsp flour
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 Tbsp fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 egg
Horseradish Cream Sauce:
- 3 Tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp sour cream
- 1–3 Tbsp creamy horseradish (adjust to taste)
- 1 Tbsp fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ tsp Worcestershire sauce
Directions:
- Prepare the instant mashed potatoes according to package instructions. Stir in ½ tsp black pepper and set aside to cool.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil. Add diced carrots and onions, sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up into bite-sized pieces. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in remaining ½ tsp pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for another 60-90 seconds.
- Sprinkle in flour and stir to coat the beef mixture evenly. Add beef stock and frozen peas. Let the mixture simmer until thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in parsley and thyme, then transfer the filling to a sheet pan to cool for 20 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pie dough into a large rectangle and cut into 6 equal rectangles (each 4×3 inches).
- Spoon 2 Tbsp mashed potatoes onto half of the rectangles, then top with 2 Tbsp of the beef filling.
- Brush the edges of the pastry with egg wash, then place the remaining pastry rectangles on top. Crimp edges with a fork to seal.
- Cut small slits in the tops of the pies for steam to escape. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the pies bake, mix all the sauce ingredients together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the pies cool for at least 5 minutes before serving. Serve with horseradish cream sauce for dipping.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 hand pies
The Origins of Shepherd’s Pie and the Evolution into Hand Pies
Shepherd’s Pie originated in the United Kingdom, where it was initially known as a way to repurpose leftover roasted meats. Traditionally, it consists of a base of minced meat (often lamb or beef) cooked with vegetables and herbs, topped with mashed potatoes, and baked until golden brown. Over time, this dish became a staple in many households, evolving into various regional variations.
The idea of transforming shepherd’s pie into a hand pie takes inspiration from British pasties savory pastries filled with meat and vegetables. Similar in concept, Shepherd’s Hand Pies are essentially mini shepherd’s pies wrapped in a flaky crust, making them easier to eat and transport. This adaptation is perfect for modern lifestyles, providing a convenient, mess-free way to enjoy a comforting classic.
What Makes Shepherd’s Hand Pies Special?
Unlike traditional shepherd’s pie, which is served in a casserole dish, these hand pies are individually wrapped in a crispy crust, making them more versatile and practical. Here are some of the key features that make them stand out:
- Golden, Flaky Pastry: The crisp and buttery pastry encasing the filling adds an irresistible texture contrast to the creamy mashed potatoes and tender beef.
- Rich and Savory Filling: A well-seasoned mixture of ground beef, carrots, peas, and onions in a flavorful brown sauce provides deep umami flavors.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Instead of being a topping, the mashed potatoes are nestled inside the pie, adding a soft and luscious element.
- Portable & Convenient: These hand pies are perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or a quick meal on the go. No forks or knives are required!
- Customizable: Easily swap out the beef for ground turkey or lamb, or even make a vegetarian version by using mushrooms and vegetable stock.
The Role of the Horseradish Cream Sauce
A good dipping sauce can elevate a dish, and in this case, the horseradish cream sauce is a game-changer. While the hand pies are delicious on their own, the sauce adds a tangy, creamy kick that balances the richness of the filling. The combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, horseradish, and lemon juice creates a zesty contrast that enhances every bite.
If you’re not a fan of horseradish, you can modify the sauce by using Dijon mustard, garlic aioli, or a classic brown gravy for dipping. The key is to complement the deep, savory flavors of the hand pies with a bit of brightness and acidity.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Shepherd’s Hand Pies are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides and beverages. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the hand pies.
- Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup or a beef-based broth pairs beautifully with the pies, creating a cozy, comforting meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: If you want to add more veggies to your plate, roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus make excellent sides.
- Pickles or Chutney: A tangy, slightly sweet chutney or a few pickles can cut through the richness of the hand pies.
- Beer or Wine: A robust stout or a smooth red wine like Merlot or Syrah complements the hearty flavors of the dish.
These pies also make great party appetizers! Simply make them smaller in size and serve them on a platter with the dipping sauce on the side.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
One of the best things about Shepherd’s Hand Pies is that they can be made ahead of time and stored for later use. Here’s how you can keep them fresh and delicious:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispness.
- Freezing: If you want to make a batch for later, fully bake the pies first, let them cool completely, then wrap each pie in parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating from Frozen: No need to thaw—just bake directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and golden brown.
These storage options make them perfect for meal prep. You can have a warm, satisfying meal ready in minutes whenever you need it!
Variations and Customizations
Shepherd’s Hand Pies can be easily modified to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few ways to make this recipe your own:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.
- Cheesy Hand Pies: Add a layer of shredded cheese (cheddar or gouda) inside the pies for a melty, cheesy upgrade.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños to the filling for a bit of heat.
- Puff Pastry Alternative: Instead of pie dough, use puff pastry for an even flakier, more delicate texture.
- Breakfast Version: Swap out the beef filling for scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese for a delicious morning hand pie.
With so many possibilities, these hand pies can be tailored to fit any occasion or preference!
Conclusion:
Shepherd’s Hand Pies take everything you love about the traditional dish and make it more accessible, portable, and fun to eat. The combination of a crispy, buttery crust with a creamy mashed potato and savory beef filling makes them a perfect comfort food for any time of year. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering, meal-prepping for the week, or just looking for a satisfying, home-cooked meal, these hand pies are sure to become a household favorite.
With easy storage options, multiple customization ideas, and a flavorful dipping sauce to enhance the experience, these hand pies prove that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Try them out, experiment with different variations, and enjoy a classic dish in a whole new way!