Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies

If you’re looking for a Halloween treat that’s as savory as it is fun, these Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies are an absolute winner. Imagine flaky, buttery pastry pockets packed with smoky, spicy chorizo, tender pork, and ooey-gooey cheese. Each bite is a little explosion of flavor—and they’re perfectly handheld, making them ideal for parties, family gatherings, or even a spooky movie night.

These hand pies have all the elements of comfort food with a festive twist. The pie dough is tender and flaky, practically melting in your mouth, while the chorizo filling is bold, savory, and slightly spicy. Toss in the rich, creamy Oaxaca and Manchego cheeses, and you’ve got a flavor combination that’s irresistibly addictive. The best part? They’re shaped like little pockets of joy—or spookiness—perfect for Halloween fun.

Trust me, these pies are going to be the centerpiece of your spooky spread. Crisp, golden crusts with a tantalizing aroma of smoked paprika, garlic, and chorizo—it’s like the ultimate savory Halloween treat calling your name from the oven.

Recipe Origin

These hand pies are inspired by traditional empanadas, with a spooky Halloween twist. By using a combination of chorizo and pork (or other meats of your choice) with bold cheeses like Oaxaca and Manchego, you get a rich, savory filling wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for bite-sized indulgence and hand-held enjoyment, they bring a festive touch to Halloween entertaining while staying downright delicious.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Rolling pin
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Skillet or sauté pan for filling
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Pastry brush for egg wash
• Fork or crimping tool to seal pies
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why You’ll Love Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies

Handheld Convenience: Bite-sized, portable, and perfect for snacking or parties.

Bold, Layered Flavors: Smoky, spicy chorizo paired with rich, melty cheeses creates a harmonious flavor explosion.

Festive and Fun: Shaped and styled to feel Halloween-ready, they’re as visually appealing as they are tasty.

Customizable: Swap meats or adjust spices to suit your preference. Add veggies or extra heat if desired.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare dough and filling ahead of time to assemble quickly when ready to bake.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Chill the dough well—cold butter makes for the flakiest crust.
• Don’t overfill pies; too much filling can make them hard to seal.
• Brush egg wash generously for golden, glossy, and enticing pies.
• Let pies cool slightly before serving so the filling sets, but enjoy them warm for melty cheese perfection.

Ingredients in Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Pie Dough

All-Purpose Flour: Tender base for flaky pastry. Chilled flour ensures the dough stays light and crisp.
Sea Salt: Enhances the buttery flavor of the dough.
Unsalted Butter: Cold and cubed, the secret to that melt-in-your-mouth, flaky texture.
Chilled Water: Hydrates the dough, with extra added as needed for perfect consistency.
Egg: Binds and enriches the dough.
Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Helps tenderize and slightly crisp the dough.

Chorizo Filling

Ground Chorizo: Smoky, spicy, and full of character. Can use beef or pork.
Minced Pork: Adds juicy richness; alternative meats like beef, chicken, or turkey work too.
Paprika: Sweet and smoky, intensifies the flavor.
Onion: Finely chopped for sweetness and texture.
Garlic: Aromatic punch that elevates the filling.
Cayenne Pepper: Optional heat for extra kick.
Salt: Enhances all flavors.

To Assemble

Oaxaca Cheese: Creamy, melty cheese for indulgent bites.
Manchego Cheese: Nutty, flavorful counterpart to Oaxaca.
Room Temperature Water: For sealing pie edges neatly.
Egg (Egg Wash): For glossy, golden crust perfection.

Instructions

Prepare the Pie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in cold, cubed butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add egg, vinegar or lemon juice, and chilled water gradually until dough comes together. Chill for at least 30 minutes.

Make the Chorizo Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook chorizo and minced pork until browned. Add finely chopped onion, garlic, paprika, cayenne (if using), and salt. Sauté until onions are translucent and flavors meld. Let the filling cool slightly.

Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to desired thickness, about 1/8-inch thick. Use a round cutter or knife to cut dough into circles for individual pies.

Assemble the Pies: Place a spoonful of chorizo filling in the center of each dough circle. Top with shredded Oaxaca and Manchego cheeses. Moisten the edges with a little water, fold dough over filling to form a half-moon, and press edges with a fork to seal.

Egg Wash: Brush each hand pie with beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish.

Bake: Place pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until golden and puffed.

Serve and Enjoy: Let cool slightly before serving. Perfect warm, with gooey cheese and savory filling bursting in every bite.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12–16 pies
Calories per serving: ~350
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies

• Party Platter: Arrange with Halloween-themed garnishes like edible eyes or pumpkin-shaped picks.
• With Dips: Serve alongside salsa, guacamole, or a smoky chipotle cream.
• Snack Table: Perfect addition to a festive snack spread with themed decorations.
• Casual Meal: Pair with a simple salad or roasted veggies for a light dinner.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Dough can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
• Filling can be cooked and cooled ahead of time for quicker assembly.
• Store baked pies in airtight containers at room temperature for 1–2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

Variations to Try

• Vegetarian: Swap chorizo and pork for mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, and smoked tofu.
• Extra Cheese: Add more Oaxaca or Manchego for gooey indulgence.
• Spicy: Include extra cayenne or chopped jalapeños in the filling.
• Mini Pies: Make smaller hand pies for bite-sized appetizers at parties.

Additional Tips

• Chill pies before baking to help maintain shape and flakiness.
• Brush egg wash carefully for a shiny, appealing finish.
• Let pies cool slightly before serving to avoid molten filling burns.
• Experiment with fillings like caramelized onions or roasted squash for a seasonal twist.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use pre-made pie dough?
A1: Yes! Store-bought dough saves time and works perfectly if you’re short on prep time.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of a party?
A2: Assemble pies ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q3: How can I make them spicier?
A3: Add extra cayenne or chopped fresh chili peppers to the filling.

Q4: Can I freeze these pies?
A4: Yes! Freeze unbaked pies on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Q5: Can I make them smaller for appetizers?
A5: Absolutely! Mini pies are perfect for parties and easier to serve.

Q6: Can I substitute cheeses?
A6: Yes! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère are great alternatives.

Q7: How do I avoid soggy pies?
A7: Ensure filling is cooled before assembling and don’t overfill.

Q8: Can I use chicken or beef instead of pork?
A8: Yes! Substitute any ground or shredded meat you prefer.

Q9: Do I need to use egg wash?
A9: It’s optional but gives the pies a beautiful golden sheen.

Q10: How should I reheat leftovers?
A10: Warm in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes or in a skillet to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies are the ultimate savory Halloween treat—flaky, buttery, packed with bold flavors, and perfectly hand-held for parties or family gatherings. With smoky chorizo, tender pork, and melty cheeses wrapped in golden pastry, they’re irresistible, festive, and fun. Perfect for a spooky spread or a cozy night in, these pies will have everyone coming back for more. Get ready to impress your guests (or yourself!) with a Halloween snack that’s as delicious as it is playful.

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