These Cheesy Meat-Filled Puff Pastry Bites are crispy, buttery, and packed with savory minced meat and melted cheddar cheese. Served with a refreshing garlic yogurt sauce, they make for an irresistible appetizer, snack, or party food! Perfect for any occasion, these golden-brown puff pastries are easy to make and bursting with flavor.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry Bites:
- 600g (21 oz) puff pastry
- 600g (21 oz) minced meat (beef, lamb, or chicken)
- 10g (0.4 oz) salt
- 2g (0.1 oz) black pepper
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 20ml (0.7 fl oz) water
- 100g (3.5 oz) cheddar cheese (sliced or shredded)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
- 250g (8.8 oz) Greek yogurt
- 15g (0.5 oz) garlic (minced)
- 10g (0.4 oz) parsley (chopped)
- 25ml (0.8 fl oz) olive oil
- 3g (0.1 oz) salt
- 2g (0.1 oz) black pepper
- 1 lime (juiced)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to the temperature indicated on the puff pastry package (typically 180-200°C (350-400°F)).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, salt, black pepper, finely chopped onion, and water. Mix well.
- Heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the meat mixture and cook until browned and fully cooked. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped parsley, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Squeeze in the lime juice, stir well, and set aside for serving.
Step 4: Assemble the Puff Pastry Parcels
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut the pastry into small squares or rectangles.
- Place a spoonful of the cooked meat mixture onto each piece of puff pastry.
- Top the meat with a slice of cheddar cheese.
- Beat the egg and brush it along the edges of the pastry squares.
- Fold the pastry over the filling, sealing the edges tightly by pressing them with a fork.
Step 5: Bake the Pastries
- Place the filled pastries on the lined baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- Brush the tops of the pastries with the remaining egg wash for a golden-brown finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven according to the puff pastry package instructions (usually 20-25 minutes), or until crispy and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove from the oven and let the pastries cool slightly.
- Serve warm with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side for dipping.
- Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, and meaty delights! 🥐🧄🧀
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
The Origins and Popularity
These cheese-stuffed puff pastry bites are inspired by savory hand pies found in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and European cuisines, such as Turkish börek, French feuilletés, and Latin American empanadas. The combination of buttery pastry, flavorful meat, gooey cheese, and a tangy yogurt dip makes this dish a global favorite!
These pastries are perfect for parties, appetizers, or even as a quick snack when you’re craving something crispy and cheesy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Flaky, buttery, and crispy – A perfect golden crust on every bite.
✔ Savory, cheesy, and flavorful – A mix of juicy meat and gooey cheddar cheese.
✔ Easy to make – Uses store-bought puff pastry for convenience.
✔ Great for any occasion – Perfect for brunch, snacks, or party appetizers.
✔ Pairs with a refreshing yogurt dip – A cool, garlicky sauce balances the richness.
Health Benefits
✔ High in protein – Minced meat and Greek yogurt provide muscle-building nutrients.
✔ Rich in healthy fats – Olive oil and cheese provide sustained energy.
✔ Good source of calcium – Cheese and yogurt promote bone health.
✔ Low-carb alternative – If using low-carb puff pastry or phyllo dough.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy puff pastry parcels are best served with:
🥗 A fresh green salad – Lightens the meal.
🌶 Spicy chili sauce or harissa – For extra heat.
🍷 A glass of red wine or iced tea – Complements the richness.
🍅 Tomato or roasted red pepper dip – A sweet and tangy contrast.
Tips for Success
✔ Chill the pastry before baking – Helps it puff up better in the oven.
✔ Drain excess moisture from the meat – Prevents a soggy pastry base.
✔ Use high-quality cheese – For a richer, meltier filling.
✔ Seal the edges well – Keeps the filling inside during baking.
✔ Brush with egg wash – For a shiny, golden-brown crust.
Variations to Try
🧀 Extra Cheesy: Add parmesan or mozzarella for more flavor.
🌱 Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with mushrooms, spinach, or ricotta cheese.
🔥 Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling.
🥩 Different Meats: Use ground turkey, lamb, or chicken instead of beef.
🥒 Mediterranean Style: Add feta cheese and sundried tomatoes for a Greek twist.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Meat-Filled Puff Pastry Bites are flaky, crispy, and packed with delicious flavors. Whether you serve them as a party snack, appetizer, or quick meal, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a rich, buttery, and meaty delight! 🥐🔥
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the pastries, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh. -
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. -
Can I freeze these pastries?
Yes! Freeze unbaked pastries, then bake straight from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes. -
How do I reheat them?
Bake at 175°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes for a crispy texture. -
Can I air-fry these pastries?
Yes! Air-fry at 180°C (360°F) for 12-15 minutes. -
Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes! Layer multiple sheets with butter for a crispy alternative.
This flaky, cheesy, and meaty puff pastry is an absolute must-try! Try it today and enjoy every delicious bite! 🥐🔥😍