Craving a snack that’s both savory and flaky? Look no further! These Spinach Artichoke Hand Pies are the perfect blend of creamy filling and golden pastry. With simple ingredients like spinach, artichokes, and cheeses, you can make an irresistible treat in no time. Whether for a party or a cozy night in, these pies will impress everyone. Let’s dive into making this tasty delight together!
Ingredients
To make Spinach Artichoke Hand Pies, you need a few key ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating a tasty treat. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Spinach
– Artichoke hearts
– Cream cheese
– Mozzarella cheese
– Parmesan cheese
– Garlic
– Lemon juice
– Salt and pepper
– Puff pastry
– Egg wash
Each ingredient adds flavor and creaminess. Spinach gives a nice color and health boost. Artichoke hearts provide a unique taste. Cream cheese makes the filling rich and smooth. Mozzarella and Parmesan add a cheesy delight. Garlic gives a great aroma and depth of flavor. Lemon juice brightens everything up. Salt and pepper enhance the taste.
Puff pastry creates a flaky, golden crust that wraps around the filling. The egg wash gives the hand pies a beautiful shine. This combination not only tastes amazing but also looks great on a plate. If you want to try making these hand pies, check out the Full Recipe for step-by-step instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– In a bowl, mix 1 cup of chopped spinach, 1 cup of drained artichoke hearts, ½ cup of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until creamy.
– Lightly dust your counter with flour. Roll out the puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the pastry into 4 equal squares, making 8 squares total.
Filling and Sealing Hand Pies
– Place about 2 tablespoons of the spinach-artichoke filling in the center of each pastry square.
– Fold the pastry over to form a triangle. Press the edges together to seal them well.
– Use a fork to crimp the edges for a nice touch and to keep the filling inside.
Baking Instructions
– Brush the tops of the hand pies with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
– Arrange the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes. Look for a golden brown color.
– After baking, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps avoid burns and enhances the flavors.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfecting Spinach Artichoke Hand Pies
– Choosing the right puff pastry: Use high-quality, all-butter puff pastry. It puffs well and gives a rich flavor. Look for brands that are flaky and layered.
– Avoiding a soggy bottom: To keep the bottom crisp, pre-bake the pastry. You can also sprinkle a little flour or breadcrumbs under the filling. This helps absorb moisture.
– Proper sealing techniques: Press the edges firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges. This not only seals but also adds a nice touch.
Suggested Serving Ideas
– Pairing with dips: Serve your hand pies with marinara sauce or sour cream. These dips add a tasty contrast and make eating more fun.
– Garnish ideas: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add color and flavor. You can also sprinkle some grated cheese on top for extra richness.
How to Achieve the Best Flavor
– Enhancing with spices or herbs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or some thyme for earthy notes. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens everything up.
– Ingredient substitutions for varied taste: Swap in goat cheese instead of cream cheese for tang. You can also add cooked chicken or mushrooms for a heartier filling.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily change some ingredients in your hand pies. Here are a few ideas:
– Alternative cheeses: Try goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist.
– Gluten-free pastry options: Use gluten-free pastry dough for a safe choice.
– Adding other vegetables or meats: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or cooked chicken for more flavor.
Flavor Variants
Spice up your hand pies with these fun options:
– Mediterranean twist: Mix in olives and sun-dried tomatoes for a savory kick.
– Spicy version: Add jalapeños for heat and a bold flavor boost.
Seasonal Variations
You can change your hand pies with the seasons:
– Incorporating seasonal greens: Use kale or Swiss chard when they are fresh.
– Holiday-themed hand pies: Add cranberries and nuts for a festive touch.
These variations let you create unique flavors while keeping the essence of the classic spinach artichoke filling. For the full recipe, check out the Spinach Artichoke Hand Pies.
Storage Info
How to Store Hand Pies
You can store your hand pies in two main ways: refrigeration and freezing. If you plan to eat them soon, put baked hand pies in the fridge. Wrap them in plastic wrap or foil. For unbaked hand pies, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for easy storage.
– Refrigeration: Baked hand pies last up to 3 days.
– Freezing: Unbaked hand pies can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat baked hand pies, the oven is the best method. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the hand pies on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps them crispy and warm.
– Best methods: Use the oven for even heating.
– Tips for maintaining crispiness: Avoid microwaving, as it makes the crust soft.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, baked hand pies last about 3 days. After that, they may lose flavor and texture. If you freeze them, unbaked hand pies can stay good for about 2 months. Just make sure to label your bags with the date. For more details on making these tasty treats, check the Full Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh artichokes. Just cook and chop them first. Fresh artichokes add a nice texture. They may need more prep time.
Are Spinach Artichoke Hand Pies suitable for freezing?
Yes, these hand pies freeze well. You can freeze them before or after baking. To freeze, place them on a tray. Once firm, transfer to a bag. They last for about three months.
What can I serve with these hand pies?
You can serve these hand pies with marinara sauce or sour cream. They also go well with a fresh salad. Try adding some herbs for extra flavor.
How do I know when the hand pies are done baking?
Look for a golden brown color on top. The edges should be crisp and flaky. You can also check the filling; it should be hot throughout.
What can I do with leftover filling?
Use leftover filling in an omelet or pasta dish. You can also spread it on toast or crackers. It works great as a dip for veggies or chips. For the full recipe, check the detailed steps above.
You learned how to make delicious Spinach Artichoke Hand Pies. We covered key ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips. I shared ways to customize the flavors and store your pies. Whether you want a quick snack or a festive treat, these hand pies will impress. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family. Embrace your cooking skills and have fun in the kitchen! You can always explore new flavors and ideas. Now, go ahead and make these tasty bites today.
