Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups cooked brisket (shredded or chopped)
• 1 refrigerated pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños (sliced)
• 1/3 cup dill pickles (sliced thin)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped, optional)
• 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Steps to Make BBQ Brisket Hand Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving a golden, crispy crust on your hand pies.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked brisket, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced pickled jalapeños, sliced dill pickles, and finely chopped onion (if using).
2. If you like an extra burst of flavor, stir in the BBQ sauce. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your spice preference.

Step 3: Roll Out the Pie Crust

1. If using a refrigerated pie crust, unroll it on a lightly floured surface. If you prefer a homemade crust, roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick.
2. Use a round cutter or a bowl to cut out circles from the dough, about 4-6 inches in diameter. Depending on the size of your circles, you should be able to get about 6-8 hand pies from a single crust.

Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies

1. Place about 2 tablespoons of the brisket filling in the center of each dough circle.
2. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, enclosing the filling.
3. Press the edges together to seal the pie, using your fingers or a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

1. Transfer the hand pies to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Brush the tops of each hand pie with the beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden color when baked.

Step 6: Bake the Hand Pies

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the hand pies are golden brown and crispy.
2. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per hand pie, based on 6 pies)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the hand pies and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them unbaked and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

2. What other fillings can I use?
These hand pies are very versatile! You can fill them with pulled pork, chicken, vegetables, or even cheese and beans for a vegetarian option. Feel free to get creative with your favorite flavors!

3. Can I use a different cheese?
Certainly! While cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or any cheese you prefer.

4. How can I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, simply place the hand pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but the crust may not stay as crispy.

5. Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes! You can use puff pastry, phyllo dough, or even biscuit dough for a different texture and flavor. Each option will yield a unique and delicious result.

Tips for Making BBQ Brisket Hand Pies

1. Don’t Overfill: It can be tempting to add a lot of filling, but overfilling can make sealing the pies difficult and may cause them to burst during baking. Stick to about 2 tablespoons of filling per pie.
2. Seal Well: Make sure to seal the edges of the pies properly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. Using a fork to crimp the edges adds both style and security.
3. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the filling mixture. Cumin, smoked paprika, or chili powder can enhance the flavors further.
4. Chill the Dough: If your dough becomes too warm while working, chill it in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shape.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: Unbaked hand pies can be frozen on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer bag once solid. They can be baked from frozen, just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

BBQ Brisket Hand Pies are a delightful and satisfying meal that brings together the best of barbecue and comfort food. With their flaky crust and savory filling, they are perfect for any gathering or simply as a hearty snack. Not only are they delicious, but they also provide a fantastic way to use up leftover brisket while impressing your friends and family with a homemade touch. So gather your ingredients, roll out the dough, and enjoy these delicious hand pies that are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!