Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese

These Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese are flaky, tender, and bursting with savory flavor. The savory minced meat is well-seasoned, and the melted cheese adds richness to each bite. Perfectly paired with a crisp salad or enjoyed on their own, they are ideal for parties, meal prep, or a cozy snack.

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Ingredients:

For the minced meat filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb (or a combination of both)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika for extra flavor, optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, adds warmth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/4 cup beef broth or water
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

For the puff pastry:

• 1 package (2 sheets) of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Minced Meat Filling:

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
• Add the ground beef (or lamb) to the pan, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and cooked through.
• Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well, allowing the spices to toast slightly and release their flavors.
• Add the tomato paste and stir to combine. Pour in the beef broth or water, mixing everything together. Simmer for 4-5 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce and the mixture to thicken. The filling should be moist but not too runny.
• Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly before adding the cheese. Stir in the grated cheese, which will melt into the warm filling and create a gooey texture.

2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. If using store-bought puff pastry, ensure it’s thawed if frozen. You should have two large rectangles of pastry.
• Cut each sheet of puff pastry into squares or rectangles (about 3-4 inches in size, depending on how large you want each pastry). This will make 6-8 pastries, depending on the size of your squares.

3. Assemble the Pastries:

• Place a spoonful of the cooled minced meat filling in the center of each puff pastry square or rectangle.
• Fold the pastry over to enclose the filling, forming either a square or a triangle (like a turnover), or you can roll it up into a cylindrical shape, depending on your preference.
• Press the edges together with a fork to seal the pastries and ensure they don’t open during baking.
• Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish once baked.

4. Bake the Pastries:

• Arrange the assembled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one for expansion.
• Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t burn.
• Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

5. Serve:

• Serve the savory puff pastry with minced meat and cheese warm. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a burst of color.
• Pair with a side salad, dipping sauces (like tzatziki or yogurt sauce), or enjoy them on their own.

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Notes:

• Meat Variations: While ground beef and lamb are classic options for these pastries, you can use ground chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian alternatives like lentils or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.
• Cheese Options: Cheddar and mozzarella are perfect for melting and provide a good balance of flavor and texture. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or Gruyère for different tastes.
• Spices: The spices in this recipe (cumin, paprika, and cinnamon) give a warm, savory flavor, but feel free to adjust them to your taste. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat or some dried oregano or thyme for an herbal note.
• Storage: Leftover puff pastry can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days in the fridge. They are best reheated in the oven to maintain the crispiness of the pastry. Alternatively, you can freeze unbaked, assembled pastries on a tray until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes when ready to cook.
• Egg Wash Alternatives: If you prefer to skip the egg wash for dietary reasons, you can brush the pastries with a little milk or olive oil for a glossy finish.

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Serving Suggestions:

• As a Snack or Appetizer: These pastries make a fantastic snack or appetizer at a party, picnic, or family gathering. They’re easy to eat with your hands and perfect for sharing.
• For Lunch or Dinner: Serve these savory puff pastries as part of a larger meal with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of yogurt dip.
• Perfect with Dipping Sauces: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can serve these pastries with a variety of dipping sauces such as sour cream, tzatziki, or a spicy tomato salsa.

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Conclusion:

These Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese are the ultimate comfort food with the perfect balance of rich, savory filling and light, flaky pastry. The combination of seasoned minced meat and melted cheese wrapped in puff pastry is absolutely irresistible, making this recipe an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a satisfying snack, these savory pastries will be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!