Cheese-Stuffed Meat Patties Recipe

Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make meal that will satisfy your cravings? This cheese-stuffed meat patty recipe is just what you need! Combining savory minced meat, creamy cheese, and a blend of spices, these patties are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. The addition of cheese makes the patties juicy and flavorful, while the crispy coating adds a delightful texture. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a mouthwatering dish that the whole family will enjoy.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • Minced meat: 500-600 g (beef, pork, or a mix of both)
  • Chicken eggs: 3 pcs
  • Hard cheese: 150-200 g (cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda)
  • Salt: To taste
  • Pepper: To taste
  • Flour: 2-4 tbsp
  • Milk: ½ cup (approximately 125 ml)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Minced Meat:
    • Place the minced meat in a mixing bowl. You can use beef, pork, or a combination of the two, depending on your preference. Beef will give a richer flavor, while pork will make the patties juicier.
    • Add salt and pepper to the minced meat according to your taste. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
  2. Grate the Cheese:
    • Take your preferred hard cheese (cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella works great for this recipe) and grate it. The cheese should be in small pieces so that it melts easily inside the patty.
  3. Prepare the Egg and Milk Mixture:
    • Crack two eggs into a bowl and whisk them. Add half a cup of milk and continue whisking until you have a smooth mixture. This will serve as the liquid base for the patties, adding moisture and flavor.
  4. Mix the Meat with the Egg and Milk:
    • Pour the egg and milk mixture into the minced meat. Mix well until everything is combined. This step will help make the patties soft and juicy.
  5. Add Flour:
    • Gradually add 2-4 tablespoons of flour to the meat mixture. The flour will help bind the ingredients together. Make sure not to add too much, as it can make the patties dense and heavy. The mixture should have a smooth and slightly sticky texture.
  6. Form the Patties:
    • Divide the meat mixture into equal portions (about the size of a golf ball or slightly larger). Flatten each portion in your hand to form a small patty.
    • Place a small amount of grated cheese in the center of each patty, then fold the meat around the cheese, ensuring it is completely sealed inside. This will prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking.
  7. Prepare the Coating:
    • Crack the remaining egg into a separate bowl and beat it. This will be used to coat the patties.
    • Lightly coat each patty in flour, then dip it into the beaten egg. This will help create a crispy outer layer when frying.
  8. Cook the Patties:
    • Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Once the oil is hot, place the patties into the pan. Fry each patty for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
    • Alternatively, you can bake the patties in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  9. Serve:
    • Serve the cheese-stuffed patties hot with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
  • Protein: 25-30 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10-12 g
  • Fat: 20-25 g
  • Sodium: 600-700 mg
  • Calcium: 150-200 mg (varies depending on the cheese used)

Note: The nutritional values can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    • Yes! You can use any type of cheese that melts well. Mozzarella, gouda, or even blue cheese can be great alternatives. Each will give the patties a unique flavor.
  2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    • Absolutely! Substitute the regular flour with gluten-free flour or cornmeal. Just ensure that all other ingredients, including seasonings, are gluten-free.
  3. Can I freeze the patties?
    • Yes, you can freeze them. Just prepare the patties as instructed, but don’t cook them. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cheese-Stuffed Patties:

  • Use a mix of meats: Combining beef and pork will give the patties a richer taste and juicier texture. The beef brings in flavor, while the pork adds moisture.
  • Chill the patties before cooking: Once formed, place the patties in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape and makes it easier to fry them evenly.
  • Don’t overstuff with cheese: It might be tempting to add a lot of cheese, but too much can cause it to leak out during cooking. A small amount ensures the cheese melts smoothly and stays inside.
  • Choose your spices: Beyond salt and pepper, you can enhance the flavor with garlic powder, paprika, oregano, or even a dash of chili flakes for some heat.
  • Cook over medium heat: Cooking the patties on medium heat ensures they cook evenly and fully without burning the outside. This is especially important if you’re frying them.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
  • Freezing: As mentioned earlier, you can freeze uncooked patties. If you’ve already cooked them, you can still freeze them, but make sure they are completely cooled first. Wrap each patty in plastic wrap and place them in a ziplock bag. To reheat, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in a pan or oven.

Conclusion:

Cheese-stuffed meat patties are a versatile and tasty dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are relatively simple to make, with ingredients that are easy to find. The combination of minced meat, cheese, and a crispy coating makes them a delicious meal for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner or hosting a small gathering, these patties are sure to impress. With the tips provided, you can customize the recipe to suit your preferences, and the storage instructions mean you can always have a batch ready to go.