Save Golden flaky hand pies filled with a creamy broccoli and cheddar mixture deliver all the flavor of quiche without the eggs or a traditional pie crust. These vegetarian treats are perfect as a snack or main dish and come together quickly with store-bought puff pastry.
I first made these for a weekend brunch and they disappeared within minutes. My family loved that they could grab them and go, and I loved not having to fuss with pie crust or worry about cooking eggs just right.
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets: 2 cups (180 g), finely chopped for a tender filling
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon for sautéing vegetables
- Onion: 1 small, finely diced for extra flavor
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon to enhance flavors
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon for mild spice
- Smoked paprika: 1/4 teaspoon for depth
- All-purpose flour (filling): 1 tablespoon for thickening
- Whole milk (or unsweetened plant-based milk): 1/2 cup (120 ml) creates the creamy base
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 1 cup (110 g), grated and melted into the filling
- Puff pastry: 2 sheets (about 450 g), store-bought and thawed for convenience
- All-purpose flour (for dusting): 1 tablespoon to prevent sticking
- Milk (or plant-based milk): 2 tablespoons, for brushing hand pie tops
- Sesame seeds (optional): 1 tablespoon, adds crunch
Instructions
- Prep Oven and Sheet:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Sauté Veggies:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3 4 minutes until translucent.
- Add Broccoli and Garlic:
- Mix in garlic and broccoli; sauté for 4 5 minutes, until broccoli is tender.
- Season and Thicken:
- Stir in salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle flour over mixture, cook for 1 minute, then slowly add milk, stirring until thickened and creamy (about 2 minutes).
- Add Cheese:
- Remove from heat and fold in cheddar cheese until melted. Let filling cool slightly.
- Prepare Pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out puff pastry sheets. Cut each into 4 rectangles (8 total).
- Fill and Shape:
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling onto half of each rectangle, leaving a border. Fold over and press edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp edges.
- Brush and Top:
- Place on baking sheet. Brush tops with milk, sprinkle sesame seeds if using. Cut a small slit on top of each pie for steam to escape.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20 25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Save Sharing these hand pies became a new family tradition for our Sunday brunches. The kids love helping to crimp the edges, and everyone enjoys them hot from the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp side salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a perfect meal. These hand pies also make wonderful picnic snacks or lunchbox treats.
Allergen Information
Contains milk, wheat (gluten), cheese (dairy). Substitute with plant-based milk and cheese for a dairy-free version and always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutrition Facts
Each hand pie provides approximately 265 calories, 16 g total fat, 23 g carbohydrates, and 7 g protein.
Save Enjoy these quiche-less hand pies warm and fresh for the best texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for a crispy crust.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I get the filling creamy without eggs?
The filling achieves creaminess by gently cooking broccoli with milk and flour, which thickens the mixture, combined with melted sharp cheddar for richness.
- → Can I use a dairy-free cheese alternative?
Yes, swap sharp cheddar for a plant-based cheese to accommodate dairy-free diets without compromising flavor.
- → What is the best way to seal the hand pies?
After folding the dough over the filling, press edges firmly and use a fork to crimp and seal, preventing leaks during baking.
- → How do I ensure the hand pies bake evenly?
Preheat the oven to 400°F and bake on a parchment-lined sheet. Cutting a small slit on top allows steam to escape, promoting even baking.
- → Can I add spices for extra flavor?
Absolutely, adding smoked paprika and a pinch of chili flakes enhances the savory depth and adds a subtle kick.