Chorizo, Pumpkin & Caramelised Onion Hand-Pies

There’s something irresistibly comforting about biting into a warm, golden pastry that gives way to a filling that’s both hearty and flavorful. These Chorizo, Pumpkin & Caramelised Onion Hand-Pies are little bundles of joy, combining the smoky richness of chorizo, the natural sweetness of pumpkin, and the deep savoriness of slow-cooked onions. Perfectly flaky on the outside and satisfyingly rich on the inside, trust me, you’re going to love this recipe.

Behind the Recipe

Every time I make these hand-pies, I’m reminded of cozy autumn evenings, when the air smells of roasted vegetables and warm spices. The pairing of chorizo and pumpkin is a playful twist on traditional comfort food, while caramelised onions add that nostalgic sweetness that feels like home. These pies carry the soul of rustic kitchen warmth, yet they’re dressed up enough to impress at any gathering.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Hand-pies have been enjoyed in many cultures for centuries, from Cornish pasties in England to empanadas in Spain and Latin America. The idea of encasing flavorful fillings in pastry crosses borders because it’s practical, portable, and delicious. This recipe borrows from Spanish influence with its smoky chorizo and from classic European traditions of using seasonal vegetables like pumpkin. It’s a little cultural journey tucked neatly inside buttery pastry.

Why You’ll Love Chorizo, Pumpkin & Caramelised Onion Hand-Pies

Versatile: Serve them as a main dish, snack, or party appetizer.

Budget-Friendly: Pumpkin and onions are inexpensive, making this filling both hearty and affordable.

Quick and Easy: Using ready-made pastry saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Customizable: Swap in different cheeses, vegetables, or even mild sausages for a twist.

Crowd-Pleasing: Their individual size makes them fun and easy to share.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep them in advance and bake just before serving.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat them for a quick lunch or repurpose into creative meals.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

A few tricks can turn good hand-pies into great ones.

• Chill your pastry before baking to ensure it stays flaky.
• Cook the onions low and slow for maximum sweetness.
• Drain excess oil from the chorizo to keep the filling balanced.
• Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly to avoid leaks.
• Brush with egg wash for that irresistible golden shine.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

For these hand-pies, you won’t need a fancy setup, just a few essentials.

• Baking tray: To bake your hand-pies evenly.
• Skillet or frying pan: For caramelising the onions and cooking chorizo.
• Mixing bowls: To combine ingredients easily.
• Sharp knife: For chopping pumpkin and onions precisely.
• Pastry brush: To apply the egg wash.
• Fork: For sealing the pastry edges.

Ingredients in Chorizo, Pumpkin & Caramelised Onion Hand-Pies

The beauty of these hand-pies lies in how each ingredient plays off the other, creating balance and harmony.

1. Chorizo sausage: 250 g, chopped, gives smoky depth and a little spice.
2. Pumpkin: 300 g, peeled and diced, adds natural sweetness and creamy texture.
3. Brown onions: 2 large, thinly sliced, caramelised for rich sweetness.
4. Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, to cook the onions and soften the pumpkin.
5. Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor.
6. Fresh thyme: 1 teaspoon, for a subtle earthy note.
7. Puff pastry sheets: 4 large, thawed, creating the golden flaky shell.
8. Egg: 1, beaten, for brushing the tops to achieve a glossy finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Cooking should always feel flexible.

Chorizo: Use spicy Italian sausage or chicken sausage for a milder version.
Pumpkin: Swap with sweet potato or butternut squash.
Thyme: Use rosemary or sage for an aromatic twist.
Puff pastry: Shortcrust pastry works if you prefer a sturdier bite.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chorizo: This cured sausage is known for its smoky paprika flavor, bringing both spice and richness.

Pumpkin: Beyond its gentle sweetness, it adds a velvety bite that balances the bold chorizo.

Instructions for Making Chorizo, Pumpkin & Caramelised Onion Hand-Pies

Cooking these pies is a joyful process that brings your kitchen alive with warmth and aroma.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Set your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a skillet, heat olive oil, add onions, and cook slowly until caramelised. Add pumpkin, cooking until tender, then stir in chorizo and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Roll out puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut into even squares.
4. Assemble the Dish: Spoon filling onto one side of each pastry square. Fold over, press edges with a fork, and seal tightly.
5. Cook to Perfection: Place pies on the baking tray, brush with beaten egg, and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and puffed.
6. Finishing Touches: Let them cool slightly before handling to allow the filling to settle.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Plate them warm with a side salad or dipping sauce.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The crisp bite of flaky pastry gives way to a melt-in-your-mouth filling where smoky chorizo mingles with sweet pumpkin and luscious caramelised onions. It’s a dance of textures, from crunchy layers to velvety softness, making each bite a delightful contrast.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To make things even smoother, keep these in mind:

• Work with cold pastry to keep it from becoming sticky.
• Use a slotted spoon when transferring filling to pastry to avoid excess liquid.
• Add a sprinkle of cheese inside for a gooey surprise.

What to Avoid

Even the best recipes can falter if you’re not careful.

• Don’t rush caramelising onions, or you’ll miss out on their deep sweetness.
• Avoid overfilling pies, as they might burst during baking.
• Don’t skip the egg wash, or your pies will lack that golden finish.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8 hand-pies
Calories per serving: 280

Note These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These hand-pies are wonderful for planning ahead. You can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it. Once baked, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped and reheat in the oven until warm.

How to Serve Chorizo, Pumpkin & Caramelised Onion Hand-Pies

Serve them warm with a tangy yogurt dip, a fresh green salad, or even a bowl of tomato soup. They also shine on a party platter as a finger food centerpiece.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftovers don’t have to be boring. Chop them up and toss into a salad, reheat and serve with fried eggs for breakfast, or crumble the filling into a wrap for a quick lunch.

Additional Tips

For extra flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on the pastry before baking. A dash of smoked paprika in the filling will intensify the smoky notes.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve your pies on a rustic wooden board with fresh thyme sprigs scattered around. A little bowl of dipping sauce on the side will make the presentation feel complete and inviting.

Variations to Try

• Add feta or goat cheese to the filling for creaminess.
• Try a vegetarian version with mushrooms instead of chorizo.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes for extra spice.
• Use mini pastry circles to create bite-sized party pies.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make these hand-pies vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the chorizo with mushrooms, lentils, or extra pumpkin.

Q2: Can I freeze the pies before baking?

Absolutely, assemble them, freeze on a tray, then bake from frozen, adding extra minutes.

Q3: What dipping sauces pair well?

Aioli, tomato chutney, or sour cream are all great options.

Q4: Can I use store-bought caramelised onions?

Yes, but homemade gives the best flavor depth.

Q5: How do I reheat leftovers?

Warm them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through to keep pastry crisp.

Q6: Can I use filo pastry instead of puff?

You can, but the texture will be lighter and crispier.

Q7: What’s the best pumpkin variety to use?

Butternut pumpkin works wonderfully for its sweetness and texture.

Q8: Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, just ensure your pastry is dairy-free and skip cheese additions.

Q9: How long can I store cooked pies?

Up to 3 days in the fridge in an airtight container.

Q10: Can I serve them cold?

Yes, but they’re most delicious warm with flaky pastry.

Conclusion

Chorizo, Pumpkin & Caramelised Onion Hand-Pies are the perfect marriage of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors, all wrapped in golden pastry. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing an easy dinner, or simply craving comfort food, these little parcels are worth every bite. Give them a try, and let their rustic charm bring warmth to your table.