Crispy, golden, and bursting with Cajun spices, Natchitoches Meat Pies are a true Southern classic. Originating from the historic town of Natchitoches, Louisiana, these hand pies are filled with a rich, flavorful blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with a perfect balance of Creole spices. Each bite delivers a flaky, buttery crust with a warm, savory filling that’s irresistible.
Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main course, these meat pies are a crowd-pleaser. They pair wonderfully with spicy remoulade or a side of creamy coleslaw for the ultimate Southern experience. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, these Natchitoches Meat Pies are a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and comforting homemade dishes.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ pound ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground thyme
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts or homemade pastry dough
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Oil for frying
Directions:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and pork until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3-5 minutes until softened.
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, cayenne, paprika, thyme, and allspice. Stir well.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce, if using. Mix in the flour, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and cook until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Roll out the pastry dough and cut into circles (about 5 inches in diameter).
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of filling onto one half of each dough circle. Fold over, press the edges together, and crimp with a fork.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the pies until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 8 pies
History and Origins
Natchitoches Meat Pies are a traditional dish from Natchitoches, Louisiana, a historic town known for its French and Creole heritage. These hand pies date back to the 18th century and were influenced by Spanish empanadas and French meat pasties, combining European culinary techniques with Southern flavors.
The meat pie became popular among early settlers, hunters, and traders, as it was easy to carry and store without refrigeration. Over time, it became a regional delicacy and is now celebrated at the annual Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival, where locals and visitors enjoy different variations of this beloved dish.
Tips for Making Perfect Natchitoches Meat Pies
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Use a Combination of Meats
- Traditional meat pies use both ground beef and pork, creating a richer and juicier filling. Some variations even include venison or turkey.
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Seasoning is Key
- The secret to authentic Louisiana flavor is the seasoning. Cayenne, paprika, thyme, and allspice bring warmth and depth to the filling. Adjust spice levels based on your preference.
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Make Your Own Pastry Dough (Optional)
- While store-bought pie crusts work well, homemade buttery dough creates an even more authentic and flaky texture. Use a mix of all-purpose flour, butter, shortening, and cold water for the best results.
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Cool the Filling Before Assembling
- Letting the meat mixture cool before stuffing the pies prevents the dough from becoming soggy and helps keep the edges sealed.
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Proper Sealing is Essential
- Crimp the edges of the pies using a fork or twist them with your fingers to prevent filling from leaking while frying.
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Deep Fry or Bake?
- Traditional Natchitoches Meat Pies are deep-fried for a crispy, golden crust. However, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes for a lighter version.
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Serve with Dipping Sauces
- Enjoy your meat pies with a side of spicy remoulade, Creole mustard, or Cajun ranch dip for extra flavor.
Ingredients & Their Importance
- Ground Beef & Pork: The combination of meats creates a richer, juicier filling. Pork adds extra fat, keeping the filling moist and flavorful.
- Onion, Bell Pepper, Garlic: These aromatic vegetables bring depth and balance to the filling, enhancing the overall taste.
- Creole Seasonings (Cayenne, Paprika, Thyme, Allspice): These spices add warmth, a mild heat, and signature Southern flavor.
- Flour & Beef Broth: Flour thickens the filling, while broth adds moisture and umami richness.
- Pie Crust Dough: The key to an authentic Natchitoches Meat Pie is a crispy, flaky crust that holds the filling without becoming greasy or soggy.
How to Make Natchitoches Meat Pies Perfectly
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by browning the meat, then sautéing the aromatics. Season with spices, then stir in flour and broth to create a rich, slightly thickened mixture. Cooling the filling before assembling ensures the dough won’t become soggy.
Step 2: Roll and Fill the Dough
Roll out your homemade or store-bought pastry dough and cut into circles. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling onto one side, leaving space at the edges to seal.
Step 3: Seal the Pies
Fold the dough over, press the edges together, and crimp with a fork. For an extra secure seal, brush the edges with a beaten egg before pressing them together.
Step 4: Fry or Bake
- Deep Frying: The traditional method. Fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Baking: A lighter option. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Brush with an egg wash for a crispier crust.
Best Ways to Serve Natchitoches Meat Pies
These meat pies are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. Serve them with:
- Dipping sauces: Creole mustard, spicy remoulade, Cajun ranch, or hot sauce.
- Sides: Red beans and rice, coleslaw, or Cajun-style cornbread.
- Beverages: Sweet tea, iced coffee, or a refreshing lemonade.
For a complete Southern meal, pair with a side of jambalaya or gumbo!
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store cooked meat pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked pies for up to 3 months. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a bag.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes for a crispy texture.
Creative Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy Meat Pies: Add chopped jalapeños or more cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Cheesy Version: Mix cheddar or pepper jack cheese into the filling.
- Seafood Meat Pie: Replace beef and pork with shrimp, crawfish, or crab.
- Vegetarian Option: Use mushrooms, black beans, or lentils instead of meat.
- Breakfast Meat Pies: Add scrambled eggs and sausage for a morning twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make These in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble and freeze the pies before frying or baking. Just thaw slightly before cooking.
2. Can I Air-Fry Natchitoches Meat Pies?
Absolutely! Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy as deep-fried, but they’ll still be delicious.
3. How Do I Keep the Filling from Leaking?
Make sure to crimp the edges well and avoid overfilling the pies. A light egg wash can help seal the edges better.
4. What’s the Difference Between Natchitoches Meat Pies and Empanadas?
Empanadas are often baked and have a softer, flakier crust, while Natchitoches Meat Pies are deep-fried and crispier.
5. What’s the Best Oil for Frying?
Use peanut oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil for frying. They have high smoke points and won’t absorb too much into the crust.
Why You Should Try Natchitoches Meat Pies
Natchitoches Meat Pies are more than just a delicious Southern snack—they’re a symbol of Louisiana’s rich culinary history. Whether you’re making them for game day, family gatherings, or just because, they’re sure to impress with their crispy texture, bold spices, and savory filling.
Try them today and enjoy a taste of Louisiana right in your kitchen! 😍🔥
Conclusion
Natchitoches Meat Pies are a delicious Southern classic with a crispy crust and flavorful filling. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they bring the bold flavors of Louisiana right to your table. Whether fried or baked, these hand pies are a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a Creole twist!