Cajun Potato and Cheddar Sausage Hand Pies Recipe

There is something irresistibly comforting about the combination of spicy, smoky, and cheesy flavors wrapped in a crispy crust, which is exactly why this Cajun Potato and Cheddar Sausage Hand Pies Recipe holds a special place in my heart. These hand pies are a perfect balance of creamy mashed potatoes, bold Cajun-spiced sausage, and sharp cheddar cheese enveloped in flaky pastry, making them a wonderful snack, appetizer, or even a satisfying meal on the go. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make them again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together beautifully in this dish, each one crucial to crafting the perfect bite. From the rich cheddar sausage lending smoky depth to the fluffy mashed potatoes creating luscious texture, every component plays a delicious role in these hand pies.

  • 1 sheet puff pastry or pie crust, thawed: The flaky foundation that crisps up perfectly in the oven.
  • 1/2 lb smoked cheddar sausage, diced: Adds bold, smoky, cheesy flavor and a satisfying bite.
  • 1 cup mashed potatoes: Creamy and smooth, they provide comforting body to the filling.
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharpness that enhances the sausage and seals the cheesy goodness inside.
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: Brings that unforgettable spicy kick and southern charm.
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle note to round out the flavors with a bit of aromatic warmth.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and brightening the filling.
  • 1 egg (for egg wash): Gives the pastry a gorgeous golden shine and beautiful crust.
  • All-purpose flour (for dusting): Prevents sticking when rolling out the pastry for neat, crisp hand pies.

How to Make Cajun Potato and Cheddar Sausage Hand Pies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C), which is perfect for creating that crisp, golden pastry. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your hand pies bake evenly and don’t stick—this little prep step saves you cleanup time later!

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, diced smoked cheddar sausage, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together gently to distribute the flavors evenly without overworking the potatoes. This filling is the heart and soul of your hand pies, bursting with bold and creamy goodness.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Pastry

Lightly dust your work surface with all-purpose flour before unrolling the thawed puff pastry. This keeps it from sticking and tearing. Using a sharp knife or a round cutter, cut the pastry into 4 to 6 rectangles or circles, depending on your preferred hand pie size. The goal is neat, manageable pieces that hold just the right amount of filling.

Step 4: Fill and Seal

Place about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the prepared filling on one half of each pastry piece. Fold the other half over to create a pocket, then use a fork to crimp the edges securely. This sealing step locks in all that cheesy, spicy filling, so none escapes during baking while also providing that classic hand pie look.

Step 5: Egg Wash for a Golden Finish

Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the tops of each hand pie. The egg wash is what transforms these from simple pastries into stunning golden pockets, adding a glossy finish and enhancing the crispiness of the crust.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the hand pies on your prepared baking sheet with space between each one. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the pastry is beautifully puffed and golden brown. The aromatic blend of Cajun spices and melted cheese fills the kitchen, heightening the anticipation!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the pies to cool just a bit before serving. This short rest helps the filling set so it doesn’t spill out when you bite in, making for a neat and delicious experience every time.

How to Serve Cajun Potato and Cheddar Sausage Hand Pies Recipe

Cajun Potato and Cheddar Sausage Hand Pies Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives brightens up these hand pies visually and adds a fresh herbaceous note that contrasts wonderfully with the hearty filling. You can also serve them with a side of tangy sour cream or a spicy remoulade for dipping, enhancing their Cajun flair.

Side Dishes

Because these hand pies are quite filling on their own, light sides work best. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the pies beautifully. Pair with pickled vegetables or a zesty tomato salsa to elevate the meal further.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or casual gatherings, arrange the Cajun Potato and Cheddar Sausage Hand Pies Recipe on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of assorted dipping sauces like honey mustard, chipotle mayo, or garlic aioli. Serve alongside colorful vegetable sticks for an inviting, festive spread everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover hand pies keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, it’s best to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave, as that preserves the flaky texture of the pastry beautifully.

Freezing

These hand pies freeze wonderfully and make for a convenient ready-to-bake snack anytime. Simply freeze them unbaked on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat and revive that freshly-baked magic, place the hand pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 12 minutes or until warmed through and crispy on the outside. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use regular sausage instead of smoked cheddar sausage?

Absolutely! While smoked cheddar sausage adds a wonderful depth and cheesiness, you can substitute with your favorite sausage. Consider adding extra sharp cheddar cheese to maintain that signature cheesy flavor if your sausage is plain.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?

This particular recipe includes smoked cheddar sausage, but you can easily swap it with a vegetarian sausage or a sautéed mix of mushrooms and bell peppers for a meat-free version that still packs great flavor.

Can I make these hand pies gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free puff pastry or pie crust available at many stores. Just make sure to dust your surface with gluten-free flour and check all seasoning labels for hidden gluten to keep the recipe fully gluten-free.

What’s the best way to reheat hand pies without drying them out?

Reheating in the oven at a moderate temperature with a loose tent of foil helps keep the crust crisp without drying out the filling. Microwaving can cause sogginess, so oven reheating is recommended.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Definitely! The filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature or warm slightly before filling the pastry to ensure easier handling and even baking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a delicious, heartfelt snack that’s bursting with bold flavors and comforting textures, I can’t recommend the Cajun Potato and Cheddar Sausage Hand Pies Recipe enough. It’s simple enough for a quick weeknight treat but special enough to impress friends and family. So roll up your sleeves and dive into these flaky, cheesy hand pies—you won’t regret a single bite!

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Cajun Potato and Cheddar Sausage Hand Pies Recipe

Cajun Potato and Cheddar Sausage Hand Pies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 54 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Cajun Potato and Cheddar Sausage Hand Pies are a delicious and easy-to-make savory treat. Combining smoky cheddar sausage, creamy mashed potatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese with a flavorful Cajun seasoning blend, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a comforting snack, appetizer, or light meal.


Ingredients

Filling

  • 1/2 lb smoked cheddar sausage, diced
  • 1 cup mashed potatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Dough

  • 1 sheet puff pastry or pie crust, thawed
  • All-purpose flour (for dusting)

Finish

  • 1 egg (for egg wash)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced smoked cheddar sausage, mashed potatoes, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
  3. Roll Out Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet. Cut the dough into 4 to 6 equal-sized rectangles or circles, depending on your preference for hand pie shape.
  4. Fill and Seal: Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the sausage and potato filling onto one half of each dough piece. Fold the dough over the filling to form a pocket, then press the edges together firmly and crimp with a fork to seal completely.
  5. Egg Wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl. Brush the tops of each hand pie with the egg wash to give them a golden, shiny finish when baked.
  6. Bake: Arrange the prepared hand pies on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the hand pies to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. They are best enjoyed warm and can be paired with your favorite dipping sauce if desired.

Notes

  • You can use homemade mashed potatoes or store-bought for convenience.
  • Feel free to adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
  • These hand pies can be frozen before baking and cooked directly from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  • Use a fork to crimp edges firmly to prevent filling from leaking out during baking.
  • Serve with ranch dressing, hot sauce, or sour cream for dipping.

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