These Minced Meat with Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a delicious and easy snack or appetizer, perfect for parties, gatherings, or a quick lunch. The combination of savory minced meat, melted cheese, and flaky puff pastry is sure to please everyone. With minimal prep and cooking time, these pinwheels are perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet Puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 300 g Minced meat (beef, chicken, or lamb)
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Oregano or mixed herbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 100 g Cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook the minced meat: Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until soft and fragrant. Add the minced meat, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Season with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the puff pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a clean surface. Spread the cooked minced meat mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border on the edges.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the minced meat.
- Roll up the pastry: Starting from one edge, roll the puff pastry tightly into a log or cylinder, ensuring the filling is evenly distributed.
- Slice the pinwheels: Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled pastry into approximately 1-inch wide pinwheels.
- Egg wash: Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden and puffed up.
- Serve: Let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of tomato salsa or a creamy dipping sauce.
- Enjoy with a fresh salad or some crunchy vegetable sticks.
- Perfect for a tea party or as finger food at a party.
- Pair with a glass of chilled white wine or a cold drink like lemonade.
- Serve alongside some roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives to the minced meat mixture for extra flavor.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or any cheese of your choice.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the minced meat with cooked lentils or sautéed vegetables.
- To make the pinwheels extra crispy, brush the edges of the puff pastry with a little butter before baking.
- Make sure to roll the pastry tightly to avoid the filling spilling out during baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- This dish provides a good source of protein from the minced meat and cheese.
- The puff pastry adds a satisfying crunch and is a good source of carbs.
- If you add vegetables to the filling, it boosts the fiber content and adds essential vitamins.
Dietary Information:
- Calories per serving (1 pinwheel): 150-180 kcal (depending on size)
- Fat: 12-15 g
- Carbohydrates: 12-15 g
- Protein: 8-10 g
- Sugar: 1-2 g
- Fiber: 1-2 g
Storage:
- Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to make with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy days.
- Versatile: you can customize the filling with different meats, cheeses, or vegetables.
- Quick to bake, with a golden and crispy finish that everyone loves.
- Great for meal prep or as an appetizer for special occasions.
- These pinwheels are a crowd-pleaser, loved by both kids and adults.
Conclusion: Minced Meat with Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and flaky all in one bite. They are easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to become a favorite at any gathering. Whether you’re serving them at a party, as an after-school snack, or as part of a meal, they are guaranteed to impress. These pinwheels are a great way to turn a few simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. - Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pinwheels, refrigerate them, and bake them just before serving. - Can I freeze the pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked pinwheels. Simply place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen for an additional 5-7 minutes. - Can I use store-bought filling instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked minced meat or a filling of your choice to save time. - What other cheese can I use instead of cheddar?
Mozzarella, Swiss cheese, or even cream cheese would work well for a different flavor. - Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, replace the minced meat with lentils, mushrooms, or a veggie mixture. - How can I make these spicier?
Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or jalapeños to the minced meat mixture for extra heat. - Can I use a different pastry other than puff pastry?
Yes, you can use shortcrust pastry or phyllo dough for a different texture. - How do I ensure the pinwheels don’t leak filling?
Roll the puff pastry tightly and seal the edges well with egg wash to prevent any leakage. - Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
Yes, fresh herbs like thyme or basil would add a lovely fragrance and flavor to the pinwheels.