Ingredients:

For the Dough:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)
1 large egg (for egg wash)
For the Filling:

1 cup cooked and shredded chicken or beef (optional)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
1/2 cup finely chopped onions
1/2 cup diced bell peppers
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage (optional)
1/2 cup chopped spinach or kale
1 teaspoon dried herbs (like thyme, oregano, or rosemary)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together. You may need a little more or less water.
Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape each into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Filling:

In a bowl, combine the chicken or beef, cheese, onions, bell peppers, bacon or sausage, spinach, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Assemble the Hand Pies:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disc to about 1/8-inch thickness.
Using a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter), cut out circles of dough.
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.
Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and crimp with a fork.
Transfer the hand pies to the prepared baking sheet.
Bake:

Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the hand pies for a golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the hand pies are golden brown and the filling is hot.
Cool and Serve:

Allow the hand pies to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as mushrooms, caramelized onions, or various cheeses.
For a vegetarian option, omit the meats and add extra vegetables or beans.
These savory hand pies are a great make-ahead option and can be frozen before baking. Simply freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.