Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry Roll:

• Puff Pastry: 1 sheet
• Ground Beef: 400 g
• Gouda Cheese: 100 g, grated
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Red Bell Pepper: 1, diced
• Fresh Parsley: A handful, chopped
• Egg: 1, lightly beaten
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
• Mustard: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1 ½ teaspoons
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon

For the Egg Wash:

• Egg Yolk: 1
• Milk: A splash

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4–6 people, depending on portion sizes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   Heat a drizzle of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 2–3 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
2. Add Seasonings:
   Stir in the diced red bell pepper, tomato paste, mustard, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
3. Incorporate Parsley and Cheese:
   Once the beef mixture has cooled, mix in the chopped parsley and grated Gouda cheese. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out the Pastry:
   Lay the puff pastry sheet on a clean, flat surface. If needed, use a rolling pin to slightly flatten and stretch the pastry to fit your desired size.
3. Add the Filling:
   Spoon the ground beef mixture onto the puff pastry, spreading it evenly but leaving about a 1-inch border along the edges.
4. Roll the Pastry:
   Starting from one end, carefully roll the pastry into a log, ensuring the filling stays intact. Seal the edges by pinching them together and place the roll seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Apply the Egg Wash

1. Prepare the Wash:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and a splash of milk.
2. Brush the Pastry:
   Use a pastry brush to coat the entire surface of the roll with the egg wash. This step ensures a golden, glossy finish after baking.

Step 4: Bake the Roll

1. Bake:
   Place the roll in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
2. Cool and Slice:
   Remove the roll from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before slicing into portions. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 340 kcal
• Protein: 19 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 520 mg

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The puff pastry roll has a timeless quality due to its universal appeal and adaptability. It represents a perfect balance of textures: flaky pastry enveloping a rich, savory filling. The addition of Gouda cheese brings a luxurious, creamy element that elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

This recipe’s versatility also adds to its enduring popularity. You can experiment with various fillings—such as vegetarian options, chicken, or seafood—and it will always taste incredible. Furthermore, the simplicity of using store-bought puff pastry makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Whether served at a family dinner, a casual gathering, or a festive celebration, the puff pastry roll never fails to impress.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the roll and refrigerate it (uncooked) for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for the freshest taste.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack can be used as substitutes for Gouda.

3. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

4. Can I freeze the puff pastry roll?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked roll. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Thaw the Puff Pastry Properly: Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling it out to prevent cracking.
• Cool the Filling: Allow the beef mixture to cool slightly before spreading it onto the pastry to avoid melting the dough.
• Seal Tightly: Properly seal the edges of the roll to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Add spices like cumin, paprika, or chili flakes for a flavor boost.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.
• Freezing: Freeze individual slices of the baked roll in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.

Conclusion

The Savory Puff Pastry Roll with Ground Beef and Gouda is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of rich flavors, convenience, and timeless appeal. From the buttery layers of the pastry to the hearty, cheesy filling, every bite is a testament to comfort food at its finest.

This dish’s adaptability makes it a staple for home cooks, whether you’re catering to a crowd or preparing a simple family meal. It’s quick to assemble, endlessly customizable, and irresistibly delicious. Best of all, it’s a recipe that can be made ahead, frozen, or enjoyed fresh out of the oven, making it perfect for busy schedules.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this puff pastry roll promises impressive results with minimal effort. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of puff pastry transform your meal into something unforgettable. Bon appétit!