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These breakfast hand pies came to life one busy Saturday when my kitchen was full of teenagers and I needed something fun, filling, and low-effort. Instead of flipping pancakes all morning, I rolled out biscuit dough, stuffed it with fluffy eggs, cheese, and bacon, and tossed it all in the air fryer. What came out was golden, crispy magic—something that feels like a special treat but is surprisingly easy to make.
I first made these for a sleepover breakfast and they were gone in minutes. Even the picky eaters went back for seconds and thirds, and now it’s become a regular weekend ritual in our house.
- Pillsbury Grand biscuits: These create the flaky base and hold everything inside
Look for the original kind for best texture - Large eggs: Scrambled just until set
Let them cool before filling the dough to keep the structure - Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and flavor to the eggs
Cook until soft but not browned - Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and brings tangy richness
Use freshly shredded for best melt - Bacon: Salty crunch and bold flavor
Cook until crisp and let cool completely - Butter: Used for brushing on top to enhance the finish
Mix with seasonings for added depth - Onion powder and parsley: These take the butter topping to the next level
Gives each pie a savory herb finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- Heat oil in a medium skillet and add the diced onions
Cook gently for about five minutes until translucent but not browned
Add beaten eggs and slowly scramble until just set
Let this mixture cool before moving to the next step - Flatten the Biscuit Dough:
- Remove the biscuits and roll each one out to about one eighth inch thickness
Make sure they are wide enough to fold over the filling without tearing - Fill the Hand Pies:
- Spoon the scrambled egg and onion mixture onto half of each biscuit round
Top with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon
Be sure to leave space around the edge for sealing - Seal the Pies:
- Wet your finger and run it around the edge of each biscuit
Fold into a half-moon and seal the edges tightly with a fork - Air Fry the First Side:
- Spray the air fryer basket and place the hand pies in
Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray
Air fry at three hundred sixty degrees Fahrenheit for five minutes - Flip and Continue Cooking:
- Carefully turn the pies over with tongs
Air fry for another four minutes until crisp and golden - Make the Butter Topping:
- While pies are cooking, stir melted butter with onion powder and chopped parsley
Keep this ready for the final finish - Add the Final Touch:
- Brush each cooked hand pie with the seasoned butter
Return to air fryer for one minute to lock in flavor and crisp the top - Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while hot and golden
Pairs perfectly with ketchup, salsa, or even hot sauce
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Storage and Reheating
These hand pies keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days
Reheat in the air fryer for two to three minutes for fresh-out-of-the-fryer texture
Freeze uncooked pies individually on a tray and store in a bag
Thaw overnight and cook as usual for a weekend-ready breakfast
Ingredient Substitutions
Instead of bacon try sausage crumbles or chopped ham
Vegetarians can use sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers
Switch up the cheese with pepper jack for spice or mozzarella for a mild stretch
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Serving Suggestions
Serve with fresh fruit or crispy hash browns for a full plate
Offer a small bowl of salsa or hot sauce on the side
Perfect with coffee or orange juice to balance the savory flavors
Cultural Context
These hand pies are inspired by the idea of portable savory pastries
Similar to British pasties or Latin empanadas
They combine familiar American breakfast flavors in a comforting handheld form
I will never forget the first time I made these and half of them burst open in the air fryer. Now I always double-check the seal and never skip the cooling step for the egg mixture.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare hand pies ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the hand pies the night before and store them in the fridge. Air fry them fresh in the morning for best texture.
- → What are good substitutes for bacon?
Sausage, ham, or cooked vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms work well. Just make sure they’re pre-cooked and cooled before use.
- → How do I keep the filling from leaking?
Don’t overfill, let the egg mixture cool, and seal edges well using water and a fork for a tight seal.
- → Can I bake these without an air fryer?
Yes, bake at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
- → How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes for the best texture.