These Savory Cheddar-Stuffed Ground Beef Puff Pastry Rolls are the kind of hearty, indulgent bake that bridges the best of flaky pastry, cheesy richness, and spiced, juicy beef. Wrapped in golden puff pastry and enriched with vegetables like red bell pepper, onion, and carrot, each mini roll is a beautiful spiral of flavor and texture. Topped with a simple, creamy cheddar and garlic filling and served with a fresh herb dipping sauce, this recipe is perfect as a main dish, party appetizer, or savory snack.

Whether you’re preparing a weekend treat or looking for a festive crowd-pleaser, these rolls are easy to assemble, look impressive, and pack a flavorful punch in every bite.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 45 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Yield

• Serves: 6 to 8

• Makes: About 16 to 20 mini rolls

Cuisine

• European-inspired savory pastry with Mediterranean influences

Ingredients

For the meat filling:

• 200 grams ground beef

• 2 eggs

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried garlic or garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 large onion, grated

• 1 bunch fresh dill, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 50 grams butter

• ½ of a red bell pepper, chopped or shredded

• 1 medium carrot, grated

• 3 tablespoons tomato sauce

For the dough:

• 450 grams ready-made yeast puff pastry (thawed if frozen)

• 2–3 tablespoons flour (for dusting)

• Olive oil for brushing

Garlic topping mixture:

• 2 cloves garlic, grated

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cheese filling topping:

• 150 grams cheddar cheese, grated

• ⅓ red bell pepper, finely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, finely grated

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• Pinch of salt and pepper

Creamy herb dipping sauce:

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or plain yogurt

• 2 teaspoons sesame sauce (or tahini)

• 1 bunch fresh dill and parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, eggs, salt, pepper, dried garlic, paprika, and dried basil.

2. Grate the onion and finely chop the dill. Add both to the beef mixture and stir thoroughly until well combined.

💡 Tip: The dill adds freshness and depth to the meat. You can substitute with parsley or cilantro depending on preference.

Step 2: Sauté the Filling

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Melt the butter into the oil.

2. Add the seasoned beef mixture to the pan. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes to partially cook the meat.

3. Add the chopped onions and cook for another 1–2 minutes.

4. Add the chopped or shredded red bell pepper and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes.

5. Add the grated carrot and stir-fry for an additional 1–2 minutes.

6. Add the tomato sauce and stir for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

7. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool completely.

🥕 Health Note: This step locks in nutrients from the vegetables and enriches the beef with both sweetness and acidity.

Step 3: Roll and Prepare the Pastry

1. On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a large rectangle. Trim the edges to even out the shape.

2. Lightly flour a baking tray and transfer the rolled-out dough onto it.

3. In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and lightly fry the grated garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Pour this garlic oil over the dough and spread it evenly using the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Add the Filling and Form the Roll

1. Evenly spread the cooled beef and vegetable mixture over the dough, leaving a 1–2 cm border around the edges.

2. Starting from the long edge, gently roll the dough into a tight log.

3. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 2–3 cm thick rounds (about 16–20 pieces).

4. Lay each spiral cut-side up on the baking tray, arranging them closely but not touching.

Step 5: Make the Cheese Topping

1. In a bowl, mix the grated cheddar cheese, chopped red bell pepper, grated garlic, mayonnaise, salt, and black pepper.

2. Spoon a small amount of this cheese filling onto the center of each roll.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).

2. Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling on top.

Step 7: Prepare the Herb Dipping Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise or yogurt, sesame sauce, and finely chopped dill and parsley.

2. Mix until smooth and creamy. Serve on the side for dipping.

🌿 Optional: You can make a second dipping sauce with lemon juice and yogurt for a tangy contrast.

Nutritional Information (Per Roll, approx.)

• Calories: 190

• Protein: 7g

• Fat: 13g

• Carbohydrates: 11g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1.5g

• Sodium: 220mg

Origins and Popularity

This recipe takes inspiration from Eastern European and Mediterranean meat pies but is adapted into a contemporary mini roll format ideal for gatherings or easy portion control. The combination of beef, cheese, and herbs inside puff pastry is universally loved — a style similar to Middle Eastern börek, Italian rotolo, or even American cheeseburger pastries. The creamy garlic herb sauce is a nod to Levantine-style dips like tahini and labneh blends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually impressive: Spiraled shape with golden tops and bubbling cheese.

• Flavorful: Garlic, herbs, and cheddar enrich every bite.

• Hearty and satisfying: Balanced protein, fats, and carbs.

• Versatile: Great hot or cold, for dinner or snacks.

• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing

Health Benefits

Despite being indulgent, this recipe includes plenty of vegetables, fresh herbs, and protein:

• Ground beef is rich in iron, B12, and zinc, essential for energy and immune function.

• Carrots and bell peppers add fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C.

• Onions and garlic support digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties.

• Dill and parsley offer detoxifying and mineral-boosting effects.

• Cheddar cheese adds calcium and protein, especially good for bone health.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these mini rolls with:

• The herb garlic sauce on the side

• A fresh tomato and cucumber salad

• A light green soup or creamy potato chowder

• As a lunchbox snack, brunch plate, or party finger food

Cooking Tips

• Cool the filling before adding it to the dough — this prevents sogginess.

• Use sharp cheddar or even gouda for more flavor in the topping.

• Brush the tops with egg wash for a shinier, more golden crust.

• Freeze raw rolls and bake directly from frozen at 190°C for 35 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetarian version: Use lentils, mushrooms, or tofu instead of ground beef.

• Spicy version: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.

• Dough options: Try crescent dough or homemade brioche-style pastry.

• Cheese alternatives: Mozzarella, provolone, or feta for different textures.

• Dipping sauces: Use tzatziki, honey mustard, or spicy mayo as sides.

Conclusion

These savory beef puff pastry spirals with cheese and herbs bring everything to the table: texture, aroma, and rich comforting flavors. Perfect for those times when you want something beyond the ordinary but still approachable. Whether you serve them with a side salad or simply on their own with a creamy herb dip, they’re guaranteed to impress.

FAQ

1. Can I make these rolls in advance?
Yes! Prepare and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze them raw and bake when ready.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey works well, especially with the same seasoning base.

3. How do I keep the pastry from getting soggy?
Ensure the filling is cooled and not too moist. If needed, pat it dry slightly with paper towels.

4. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Omit the cheese and replace butter and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives.

5. What can I use instead of puff pastry?
Try phyllo sheets, crescent roll dough, or homemade brioche-style dough.

6. How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for 1 month.

7. Can I reheat them?
Yes, reheat in the oven at 180°C for 10 minutes to maintain crispness.

8. What can I serve with these rolls?
A fresh salad, pickles, or a yogurt-based dip complement them beautifully.

9. Can kids eat this?
Definitely! Just go easy on the black pepper or spices for sensitive palates.

10. Can I skip the sauce?
Yes, they’re flavorful enough on their own, but the sauce elevates them to the next level.