Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese

Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese is a mouthwatering dish that combines a flaky, buttery crust with a flavorful filling of seasoned minced meat and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for snacks, appetizers, or even a quick dinner, these pastries are both satisfying and easy to prepare. Follow this detailed recipe to create this delicious treat.

Ingredients Needed:

For the puff pastry:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)

For the filling:

• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 250g (about 1/2 pound) of minced meat (beef, lamb, or chicken)
• 1 teaspoon of salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon of chili flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)

For the topping:

• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon of water
• Sesame seeds or black seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the pastries don’t stick.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the minced meat to the skillet. Cook while breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked (about 8-10 minutes).
4. Season the meat with salt, black pepper, paprika, and chili flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Stir in the chopped parsley and shredded cheese.

3. Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to ensure it’s smooth and even.
2. Cut the pastry into squares, approximately 4×4 inches in size. You can adjust the size based on your preference.

4. Fill the Pastry Squares

1. Place about 1 tablespoon of the prepared filling in the center of each pastry square. Be careful not to overfill, as it may be difficult to seal the pastry properly.
2. Fold the pastry squares into triangles or rectangles by bringing two opposite corners together and sealing the edges firmly with your fingers or a fork.

5. Apply the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush the egg wash lightly over the tops of the pastries to give them a golden and shiny finish during baking.

6. Garnish and Bake

1. Sprinkle sesame seeds or black seeds on top of the pastries for extra flavor and texture (optional).
2. Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each one.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.

7. Cool and Serve

Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with a side of yogurt, a fresh salad, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Success:

• Make-Ahead Option: The filling can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Cheese Choices: For a richer flavor, try mixing different types of cheese, such as cheddar, gouda, or feta.
• Storage: Leftover pastries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.
• Customizations: Add vegetables such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling for added flavor and nutrition.

Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a snack, a party appetizer, or a quick meal, these pastries are sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy every flaky, cheesy, and flavorful bite!

For more details, visit the full recipe

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