Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese

Description

This Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese is a golden, flaky delight that’s perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. The buttery puff pastry encases a flavorful minced meat filling enriched with herbs, spices, and gooey melted cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, festive tables, or quick dinner parties when you want something elegant yet easy to prepare.

Ingredients For Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese

• For the filling

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 500 g (1 lb) ground beef, lamb, or chicken

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)

• ½ tsp cumin powder

• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tbsp chopped parsley or cilantro

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

• For the pastry

• 1 pack puff pastry sheets (thawed if frozen)

• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds or nigella seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the filling

   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

   • Add onion and sauté until soft and translucent.

   • Stir in garlic, then add minced meat. Cook until browned.

   • Season with salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and chili flakes.

   • Mix in tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes until well combined.

   • Remove from heat, stir in parsley, and let the filling cool slightly.

   • Once cooled, mix in shredded cheese.

2. Prepare the pastry

   • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).

   • Roll out puff pastry sheets lightly on a floured surface.

   • Cut into squares or rectangles (about 4–5 inches wide).

3. Assemble

   • Place 1–2 tbsp of filling in the center of each pastry square.

   • Fold into triangles, rectangles, or envelopes.

   • Seal edges by pressing with a fork.

4. Bake

   • Place pastries on a lined baking tray.

   • Brush tops with beaten egg.

   • Sprinkle sesame or nigella seeds (if using).

   • Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden and puffed.

5. Serve

   • Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Best enjoyed warm.

Notes

• You can use store-bought puff pastry for ease, or homemade if you prefer.

• The filling should be cooled before adding cheese to prevent it from melting prematurely.

• Variations: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor.

• Works well with beef, lamb, chicken, or even plant-based mince.

Tips

• Make ahead: Prepare the filling a day earlier, refrigerate, and assemble before baking.

• Freezer-friendly: Assemble pastries and freeze them unbaked; bake straight from frozen (add 5 extra minutes).

• For extra crispiness, bake pastries on the middle rack and avoid overcrowding the tray.

Servings

Makes about 10–12 pastries, depending on size.

Nutritional Info (per pastry, approx.)

• Calories: 260

• Protein: 12 g

• Fat: 17 g

• Carbohydrates: 18 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 1 g

Benefits

• Protein-rich from minced meat and cheese.

• Quick & versatile – perfect for parties or family snacks.

• Customizable – works with different meats, cheeses, or veggies.

• Portable & freezer-friendly, making it great for meal prep.

Q & A

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes! Substitute minced meat with mushrooms, lentils, or a veggie-based mince.

Q: How do I keep puff pastry crispy?
A: Bake at a high temperature (200°C/400°F) and avoid overly wet fillings.

Q: Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
A: Yes, but it will be lighter and crispier—layer phyllo sheets with butter before adding filling.

Q: What cheese works best?
A: Mozzarella for gooeyness, cheddar for sharpness, or feta for a tangy bite.

Q: How long can I store them?
A: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warm.