This savory puff pastry pie is the perfect combination of hearty ground beef, vegetables, and fluffy puff pastry. The meat filling is seasoned with aromatic spices, mustard, and fresh herbs, and paired with a mixture of sautéed veggies like onion, carrot, and cabbage. The result is a comforting, satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a main meal for lunch or dinner. The golden, flaky puff pastry adds the finishing touch, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 300g (2 cups) ground beef
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- A bunch of dill and parsley, chopped (about 1/4 cup each)
- 200g (1 cup) cooked rice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 200g (1/2 medium head) white cabbage, shredded
- 150g (1 cup) bacon, chopped
- Olive oil for frying
For the Pastry:
- 450g (about 2 cups) puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 100g (1 cup) cheese, grated (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
Directions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and grated carrot. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in paprika, garlic, mustard, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked rice, shredded cabbage, and chopped bacon. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Stir in chopped dill and parsley for a fresh herb flavor. Set the mixture aside to cool.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Line the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish or tart pan with half of the pastry.
- Spread the cooled filling evenly over the pastry base.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese on top of the filling.
- Roll out the remaining puff pastry and cover the pie, pressing down around the edges to seal. Brush the top with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Serve:
- Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.
5 Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with roasted vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy addition.
- Enjoy with a side of garlic bread or toasted baguette slices.
- For a complete meal, serve with a simple tomato and cucumber salad.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure that the puff pastry is chilled before use for best results.
- You can use any ground meat of your choice, such as turkey or chicken, for a lighter version.
- If you prefer a more savory filling, add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the mix.
- For extra richness, add some cream cheese or ricotta to the filling.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried thyme or oregano can be a good substitute.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Ground beef provides a good source of protein and essential amino acids.
- Vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and cabbage add fiber, vitamins, and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and folate.
- Rice serves as a carbohydrate source for energy.
- The addition of fresh herbs like parsley offers antioxidants and supports immune health.
- Puff pastry provides a satisfying crunch, while cheese adds calcium and protein.
Dietary Information:
- Calories: Approximately 450-500 calories per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Storage:
- Leftover pie can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- You can also freeze the pie before baking for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, a holiday meal, or a cozy night in.
- The filling is rich and flavorful with a perfect balance of savory meat, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese.
- The puff pastry is golden, buttery, and crispy, offering the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
- This pie can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a truly versatile dish.
Conclusion:
This Hearty Meat and Vegetable Puff Pastry Pie is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its savory filling, flaky crust, and cheese topping, it’s a dish that combines comfort and flavor in every bite. Whether served with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad, it’s a great way to enjoy wholesome ingredients. Don’t forget to serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to enhance the flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to beef. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pie a day ahead. Just bake it the next day. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese of your choice, such as mozzarella, gouda, or feta. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, this recipe contains puff pastry which is typically made with wheat flour. You can use a gluten-free puff pastry if needed. - Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition. - How do I prevent the pastry from becoming soggy?
Make sure the filling has cooled slightly before adding it to the pastry to prevent the pastry from getting soggy. - Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and bake from frozen. - Can I use store-bought filling instead of homemade?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use pre-made fillings, but homemade gives the best flavor. - What other herbs can I use instead of dill and parsley?
Thyme, rosemary, or basil would all work well in this recipe. - What should I serve with this pie?
It pairs well with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a creamy soup for a complete meal.