Savory puff pastry with minced meat and cheese is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb (or any minced meat of your choice)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Prepare the filling:
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Add the minced meat to the pan and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- Season the meat mixture with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in the shredded cheese and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and well combined with the meat. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the puff pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases.
- Cut the puff pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on your desired portion size (about 4-6 pieces).
3. Assemble the puff pastries:
- Place a spoonful of the meat and cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square.
- Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, depending on the shape of your cut pastry. Press the edges together to seal (you can use a fork to crimp the edges for a nice finish).
4. Egg wash and baking:
- In a small bowl, beat the egg to create an egg wash. Brush the top of each pastry with the egg wash for a golden finish.
- Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These savory puff pastries are delicious on their own or with a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch.
Tips:
- Meat variation: You can substitute the minced meat with ground chicken, turkey, or pork if you prefer.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add some sautéed vegetables (like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach) to the meat mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Cheese options: You can use any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or feta, for a tangier option.
Enjoy your savory puff pastries with minced meat and cheese!
