Appetizer Meat Pies
Overview:
These Appetizer Meat Pies have stood the test of time, becoming a cherished staple over the years. Whether served piping hot or straight from the fridge, they never fail to delight. Originating from a treasured family cookbook passed down through generations, these pies are a testament to tradition and flavor. Perfect for holiday gatherings or impromptu get-togethers, they’re a convenient crowd-pleaser that can be prepared in advance and enjoyed at a moment’s notice. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the secrets behind these irresistible savory treats!
Time Table:
Preparation | Cooking | Total |
---|---|---|
15 minutes | 40 minutes | 55 minutes |
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 16-18 slices of bread (trim crusts)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, finely diced onion, shredded cheddar cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed. This savory filling is the heart of our delicious meat pies.
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Prep the Bread Crusts:
- Trim the crusts from the slices of bread, creating a smooth surface for our pies. This step not only enhances the presentation but also ensures a perfect, uniform crust for each bite.
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Butter and Shape the Crusts:
- Butter one side of each bread slice generously. Then, gently press each slice, butter side down, into the muffin tins, creating a cozy nest for our meat filling. It’s important to press the bread gently from the edges to avoid tearing and ensure a snug fit within the muffin tin.
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Fill with Meat Mixture:
- Spoon the prepared meat mixture into each bread-lined muffin tin, filling them to the brim with savory goodness. Don’t be shy with the filling—the more, the merrier!
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Bake to Perfection:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the filled muffin tins in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the bread crusts are golden brown and crispy. The aroma wafting from the oven will signal that our appetizer meat pies are ready to be enjoyed.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked to perfection, remove the meat pies from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a serving platter and watch as they disappear within moments. Whether served hot or cold, these delectable appetizer meat pies are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 158.1
- Fat: 5.7g
- Saturated Fat: 2.3g
- Cholesterol: 35.4mg
- Sodium: 331mg
- Carbohydrates: 16.4g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Sugar: 1.5g
- Protein: 9.5g
Tips and Variations:
- Make-Ahead Convenience: These appetizer meat pies can be prepared in advance and stored in the freezer, making them ideal for busy days or unexpected guests. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying snack.
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to customize the filling according to your preferences. Add diced vegetables, herbs, or spices to elevate the flavor profile and create your own signature meat pies.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: For an extra layer of flavor, serve the meat pies with your favorite dipping sauce, such as barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy mustard. The combination of savory meat and tangy sauce is simply irresistible.
- Miniature Versions: Experiment with different sizes of muffin tins to create miniature appetizer meat pies, perfect for parties and gatherings. These bite-sized treats are guaranteed to be a hit with guests of all ages.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, these Appetizer Meat Pies are more than just a recipe—they’re a culinary tradition cherished by generations. With their hearty meat filling, golden bread crusts, and irresistible flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household as well. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these versatile pies are bound to impress. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a delicious culinary journey with these timeless appetizer meat pies. Enjoy! 🥧🍴