Introduction
Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese is a delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal. The combination of flaky, buttery puff pastry filled with seasoned minced meat and melted cheese creates a perfect blend of flavors and textures. This dish can be served as a quick appetizer, a light lunch, or a savory treat for gatherings. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize the filling with your preferred ingredients. It’s sure to be a hit with meat lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike!
Ingredients:
1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 lb (225g) minced beef or lamb
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Fresh herbs (parsley or basil) for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the filling:
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and translucent.
Add the minced meat, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through.
Season with dried oregano, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well and remove from heat. Let it cool down slightly.
Prepare the pastry:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on the size you prefer for your pastries.
Assemble the pastry:
Place a spoonful of the cooled minced meat mixture in the center of each pastry square.
Sprinkle some grated cheese on top of the meat.
Fold the pastry over the filling to form a pocket or triangle. Seal the edges by pressing them together with a fork.
Bake:
Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Description:
These savory puff pastries are an irresistible combination of crispy, buttery pastry, hearty minced meat, and melty cheese. The puff pastry puffs up in the oven to create a golden, flaky exterior, while the seasoned meat filling adds a savory and satisfying taste. The cheese melts inside, adding richness and a gooey texture that complements the meat perfectly. These pastries are a great way to enjoy a savory snack or a light meal, and they’re perfect for parties or gatherings.
Tips:
You can substitute the minced beef with chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Add some finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
Use different types of cheese for variety; goat cheese, feta, or parmesan can all add unique flavors.
Make sure the minced meat filling is not too hot when filling the pastry, or the puff pastry may become soggy.
Variations:
Spicy Version: Add some chili flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
Herbed Pastry: Sprinkle some dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary) over the puff pastry before folding for an extra aromatic flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the minced meat with a combination of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta cheese for a vegetarian filling.
Mini Pastries: You can make mini versions of these pastries for appetizers by cutting the puff pastry into smaller squares or circles.
Correction:
If the puff pastry gets too soft and difficult to handle, try chilling it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before rolling it out. This will make it easier to work with and help it puff up better when baking.
Ensure the filling is not too wet, as excess moisture can cause the pastry to become soggy. Drain any extra liquid from the meat before assembling.
Enjoy:
Serve these warm, fresh out of the oven, for the best taste and texture. Whether as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, these savory puff pastries will surely be a favorite at your table!