Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese

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Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese: A Flavorful, Easy-to-Make Delight

Savory puff pastry with minced meat and cheese is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. The crispy, flaky layers of puff pastry are paired with a flavorful, savory minced meat filling and melted cheese, making each bite an irresistible delight. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer, a snack, or a main dish, these puff pastry pockets are sure to satisfy your cravings.

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize the filling with your favorite meats, spices, and cheeses, making it a dish that fits any taste. The combination of minced meat, cheese, and puff pastry makes it a hearty yet light meal that can be enjoyed by everyone. Let’s dive into how to make this savory treat step by step.

Ingredients for Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese

For the Filling:

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen) – Puff pastry serves as the perfect flaky base, adding texture and richness to the dish.
  • 250g minced meat (beef, lamb, or chicken) – The minced meat adds a savory, juicy element to the filling. Choose your preferred meat for the best flavor.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped – Onion adds a natural sweetness and depth to the filling.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced – Garlic infuses the filling with aromatic flavor.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil – Olive oil is used for sautéing the vegetables and browning the meat.
  • ½ tsp salt – Salt enhances all the flavors and balances the richness of the meat and cheese.
  • ½ tsp black pepper – Pepper adds a subtle kick to the filling.
  • ½ tsp paprika (optional) – Paprika introduces a mild smoky flavor to the dish.
  • ½ tsp cumin (optional) – Cumin adds an earthy, warm spice that complements the meat filling.
  • ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional) – Chili flakes offer a bit of heat to spice things up.
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (or 1 small diced tomato) – Tomato paste gives the filling richness and a slightly tangy taste.
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – Fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness and color to the filling.
  • 100g cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or feta), shredded – The cheese melts beautifully within the pastry, giving it a creamy texture and extra flavor.;

For Assembling:

  • 1 egg yolk, beaten – The egg yolk is brushed on top of the pastries to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds or nigella seeds (optional) – These seeds add extra texture and flavor to the top of the pastry.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to release its fragrance.

Next, add the minced meat to the pan. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. Stir in ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and optional spices such as paprika, cumin, and chili flakes. These spices will enhance the depth of flavor in the filling.

Once the meat is cooked, stir in the tomato paste (or diced tomato) and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the mixture to blend together. Remove the pan from the heat and mix in the chopped fresh parsley. Let the filling cool slightly while you prepare the pastry.

Step 2: Assemble the Pastry

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If your puff pastry is frozen, be sure it’s fully thawed before using it.

Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. Place a spoonful of the prepared meat filling in the center of each pastry piece. Then, sprinkle some of the shredded cheese over the meat filling. The cheese will melt as it bakes, creating a gooey, savory pocket.

Next, fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle shape, depending on how you cut the pastry. Press the edges together firmly to seal the pastry. Use a fork to crimp the edges and ensure they stay sealed during baking.

Step 3: Bake the Pastry

Brush the top of each pastry with the beaten egg yolk. This will give the pastries a beautiful golden-brown color and glossy finish when baked. If desired, sprinkle some sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top of the pastries for extra texture and flavor.

Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake them in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the pastries are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These savory puff pastries are best served warm. You can enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or a full meal. For an extra touch, serve with a side of yogurt sauce, a light salad, or a bowl of soup.

Why You’ll Love Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese

These Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese are a perfect blend of flaky pastry, savory meat, and melted cheese, making them the ultimate comfort food. Here are just a few reasons why this recipe is sure to become a favorite:

1. Perfect Balance of Flavors

The rich minced meat combined with the mild, creamy cheese and crisp, flaky pastry creates a well-rounded flavor profile. The addition of fresh herbs like parsley and the optional spices ensures that every bite is filled with exciting flavors.

2. Customizable to Your Taste

Whether you prefer beef, lamb, or chicken, this recipe allows you to choose the meat that best suits your taste. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, from sharp cheddar to creamy mozzarella or tangy feta.

3. Perfect for Any Meal

These pastries are incredibly versatile. They can be served as an appetizer for a dinner party, a snack for movie night, or as a light lunch or dinner. The flaky, satisfying pastry makes them perfect for any occasion.

4. Easy to Make

Despite their delicious taste and impressive presentation, savory puff pastries are surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have these pastries ready in no time. It’s an accessible recipe that’s perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.

5. Satisfying and Filling

The minced meat and cheese filling is hearty and filling, while the puff pastry adds a light, crispy texture. Together, they create a satisfying dish that will leave you feeling satisfied without being overly heavy.

Conclusion

Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese is a delicious and versatile dish that combines flaky pastry with a savory, satisfying filling. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these pastries are sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of cheese, minced meat, and puff pastry makes for an irresistible treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. So, the next time you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, give these savory pastries a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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