Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese

 

A flaky, golden pastry filled with juicy minced meat, melted cheese, and aromatic spices—perfect as a party snack, family dinner, or a cozy teatime treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the buttery, airy layers of puff pastry with a flavorful minced meat filling and gooey cheese. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and can be made ahead of time. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply craving a savory pastry, this dish is guaranteed to please.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (or more, depending on how many pastries you want to make)
• 1 tbsp butter (for greasing and extra richness)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 300 g (10 oz) minced beef or lamb (you can also use chicken or turkey)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp ground cumin (optional, for warmth)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp tomato paste (or ½ cup diced tomatoes, cooked down)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Cheese Layer:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar, gouda, or a mix)

For Assembling:

• 1 egg yolk (for egg wash, mixed with 1 tsp milk)
• Sesame seeds or nigella seeds (optional, for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Remove puff pastry from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
2. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the pastry if needed, to ensure smooth, even layers.
3. Keep it chilled until you’re ready to fill, so it stays flaky when baked.

Step 2: Cook the Minced Meat Filling

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and golden.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add the minced beef (or lamb) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink.
5. Season with dried basil, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Add tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
7. Finish with fresh parsley for brightness.
8. Set aside to cool slightly before filling the pastry.

Step 3: Assemble the Pastries

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Cut the puff pastry sheet into squares or rectangles, depending on the size you prefer.
3. Place a spoonful of minced meat filling in the center of each pastry square.
4. Top with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling into triangles or rectangles, pressing edges firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
6. Brush the tops with egg wash for a golden color.
7. Sprinkle sesame or nigella seeds if desired.

Step 4: Bake

1. Arrange the pastries on the prepared baking tray, leaving some space between them.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
3. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Serving Ideas

• Serve warm with a side of fresh salad or yogurt dip.
• Pair with tea, coffee, or even a glass of cold lemonade.
• These pastries are great as appetizers, party snacks, or even a main dish when paired with soup.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overfill the pastries, or they may burst while baking.
• Keep puff pastry cold until the moment of baking for best puffing results.
• Experiment with fillings: you can add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
• If you prefer a creamier filling, mix some ricotta or cream cheese into the meat mixture before stuffing.

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
• You can also freeze unbaked pastries—simply assemble them, freeze on a tray, and bake from frozen (adding 5 extra minutes).