This Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese recipe is a perfect combination of crispy puff pastry, flavorful minced meat filling, and a touch of creamy cheese. It’s a savory dish that can be served as a hearty snack, appetizer, or even as a light main course. The ground meat, seasoned with herbs, spices, and vegetables, is wrapped in a golden puff pastry and baked until crispy. Topped with a simple garlic butter sauce and tangy mayonnaise, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Preparation Time
- Active Preparation: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
-
For the Filling:
- 200g minced meat (beef or lamb)
- 1 egg
- 1 red onion, grated
- 1 pepper (bell pepper or chili), chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 tablespoons sauce (tomato sauce or soy sauce)
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Parsley, chopped
- Dill, chopped
-
For the Puff Pastry:
- 450g puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- Flour (for rolling the dough)
- Butter (for greasing the pan)
-
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic
-
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
-
For the Final Touch:
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon French mustard
Directions
-
Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 200g minced meat, 1 egg, grated red onion, chopped pepper, grated carrot, and chopped parsley and dill.
- Add 1 tablespoon of flour, 2 tablespoons of sauce (tomato or soy sauce), 1 teaspoon of curry, and season with salt and black pepper.
- Mix the ingredients well until the filling is evenly combined. Set aside.
-
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry dough into a thin sheet.
- Cut the dough into rectangles or squares depending on your preference for the size of each pastry.
-
Assemble the Pastry:
- Place a generous spoonful of the minced meat filling in the center of each pastry rectangle or square.
- Fold the pastry over the filling to create a pocket or a sealed envelope shape. Press the edges to seal them tightly, ensuring the filling stays inside during baking.
-
Prepare the Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Brush the egg wash over the top of each pastry to help them achieve a golden, shiny finish when baked.
-
Bake the Pastries:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Place the prepared pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
-
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- While the pastries are baking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
-
Finish the Dish:
- Once the pastries are out of the oven, immediately brush them with the garlic butter sauce.
- In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of sour cream and 1 tablespoon of French mustard. Serve the pastries with the sour cream-mustard sauce on the side for dipping.
-
Serve:
- Let the pastries cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the golden, flaky pastry filled with a savory minced meat filling and topped with garlic butter and tangy sauce!
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 350-400 kcal per serving (1 pastry)
- Protein: 18 grams
- Fat: 22 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 600 mg
The Origins and Popularity of This Recipe
Puff pastry is a beloved dough used in many savory and sweet dishes, originating in France and widely adopted around the world. It is known for its light, flaky texture created by layers of butter and dough that puff up as they bake. The savory fillings wrapped in puff pastry have been a staple in various cuisines for centuries, with countless variations. The combination of minced meat, vegetables, and spices wrapped in a delicate pastry is a popular comfort food in many cultures, including European and Middle Eastern kitchens.
This particular recipe takes inspiration from savory pastries that have been adapted to modern tastes. By adding flavorful ingredients such as curry, dill, and fresh vegetables to the minced meat filling, it offers a twist on the traditional meat pie or pastry. The garlic butter sauce and creamy dipping sauce elevate the dish, making it a standout.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The flaky, buttery pastry crust contrasts beautifully with the savory, spiced filling inside. Whether you enjoy it as a snack, appetizer, or light main course, the combination of garlic butter, tangy sour cream, and mustard elevates the dish to something truly special. It’s perfect for gatherings, family meals, or whenever you want a satisfying, indulgent treat.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
While puff pastry is rich in butter, which contributes to its crispy texture, it also offers a delicious way to include lean proteins, vegetables, and herbs in your diet. The minced meat provides protein, while the carrots, peppers, and onions offer essential vitamins and minerals. The addition of parsley and dill adds antioxidants and fresh flavors. The sour cream and mustard sauce offers a creamy yet tangy element that complements the savory filling. When eaten in moderation, this dish can be part of a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious served on its own, but it can also be paired with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For extra indulgence, serve it with a side of roasted potatoes or fries. A fresh tomato salad with herbs would also pair beautifully with the richness of the pastry.
Tips
- For a lighter version, you can use a reduced-fat puff pastry or make your own dough.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices in the filling for varied flavors. Thyme, rosemary, or cumin would add unique depth to the filling.
- To make the dish more filling, add grated cheese to the meat mixture or sprinkle it on top of the pastries before baking.
- If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use shortcrust or phyllo dough for a different texture.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the minced meat with mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian filling.
- Cheese Stuffed Pastries: Add a layer of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to the filling for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Pastry: Add chili flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling to give the dish some heat.
Conclusion
This Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese is a perfect balance of savory, crispy, and creamy flavors. With its rich filling and golden puff pastry crust, it’s a dish that will satisfy anyone’s cravings. Whether you’re serving it as a snack or part of a larger meal, it’s guaranteed to impress. Enjoy the savory goodness with garlic butter and creamy dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make the filling ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Q: Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry is a great time-saver, and it works perfectly for this recipe.
Q: Can I freeze the pastries?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled pastries before baking. Just bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.