Golden-baked puff pastry filled with seasoned minced meat, sautéed onions, herbs, cheese, and boiled eggs, served with a refreshing garlic yogurt dip and pickled cucumber for a delicious contrast. This showstopper is the perfect centerpiece for any savory spread.
Preparation Time: 35 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Cuisine: European, Mediterranean-inspired
Ingredients
-
1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
-
1 tablespoon butter
-
1 medium onion, finely chopped
-
1 teaspoon dried basil
-
400–500g minced meat (beef, lamb, or a mix)
-
Salt and black pepper to taste
-
100g cheese, grated (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)
-
1 bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped
-
2 boiled eggs, peeled and halved or chopped
-
1 egg yolk (for brushing)
-
Pickled cucumber (for serving)
-
1 garlic clove, minced
-
200g plain white yogurt
Instructions
-
Sauté the Onion and Meat
In a skillet, melt butter and sauté finely chopped onion until translucent. Add the dried basil and stir for a fragrant base. Add minced meat, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Stir in chopped parsley and let the mixture cool slightly. -
Prepare the Filling
Once the meat mixture has cooled, fold in the grated cheese and chopped or halved boiled eggs. This filling is rich and savory with layers of texture—from tender meat to creamy cheese and the surprise of egg pieces. -
Assemble the Puff Pastry Roll
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle. Spoon the filling down the center, leaving borders on all sides. Fold in the short ends, then roll from the long side to form a neat log. Place the roll seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. -
Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the top with egg yolk for a glossy, golden finish. Use a sharp knife to score light diagonal lines across the top for decoration. Bake at 150°C (300°F) for 30 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. -
Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
While the pastry bakes, mix plain yogurt with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth. Chill until ready to serve. -
Serve
Let the roll cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with dollops of garlic yogurt sauce and slices of pickled cucumber on the side for tang and freshness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
-
Calories: 410 kcal
-
Protein: 24 g
-
Fat: 28 g
-
Carbohydrates: 19 g
-
Fiber: 2 g
-
Sugar: 3 g
-
Sodium: Moderate
-
Cholesterol: 140 mg
Origins and Popularity
Puff pastry rolls with meat fillings are cherished across many cultures—from European savory strudels to Middle Eastern and Balkan meat pies. This particular combination of spiced minced meat, eggs, and cheese wrapped in buttery dough is reminiscent of celebratory dishes in Turkish, Greek, and Eastern European homes. The garlic yogurt sauce adds a Mediterranean flair that balances richness with refreshing coolness.
Reasons to Love This Recipe
This recipe is a complete crowd-pleaser. It’s indulgent yet refined, easy to prepare yet elegant in presentation. The crisp, flaky pastry shell gives way to a juicy, flavorful center dotted with creamy cheese and tender egg. It’s portable enough for picnics and impressive enough for dinner parties. The cool yogurt dip and crunchy pickled cucumber elevate every bite into a well-rounded experience.
Health Benefits
-
Parsley offers vitamin C, antioxidants, and supports kidney function.
-
Garlic helps reduce inflammation, supports immune health, and adds antibacterial benefits.
-
Yogurt is rich in probiotics for gut health and calcium for bone strength.
-
Eggs are a great source of choline, protein, and essential vitamins.
-
Minced meat provides iron and protein essential for energy and cell repair.
-
Onions and herbs are rich in flavonoids, supporting heart health.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
-
A light green salad with vinaigrette
-
Roasted vegetables or grilled zucchini
-
A glass of dry white wine or sparkling lemonade
-
Warm flatbreads to scoop up yogurt sauce
-
Additional sauces like harissa, tomato chutney, or sweet chili
Cooking Tips
-
Let the meat cool before mixing in the cheese to prevent melting too early.
-
For extra richness, add a spoonful of cream cheese to the filling.
-
Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and ensure easy transfer from tray to plate.
-
Keep puff pastry chilled until rolling to help maintain its structure.
-
If using pre-cooked meat, reduce the cooking time during sautéing.
Variations
-
Spicy Version: Add red chili flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling.
-
Vegetarian Alternative: Use cooked lentils, mushrooms, and spinach as a meat-free filling.
-
Cheese Lover’s Twist: Add feta or ricotta for an even creamier center.
-
Mediterranean Flavor: Include chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes in the filling.
-
Breakfast Style: Make mini versions with scrambled egg and bacon in puff pastry squares.
Conclusion
The Minced Meat Puff Pastry Roll is one of those recipes that look and taste far more impressive than the effort it takes to prepare. Whether you’re serving it hot from the oven at a family dinner or slicing it for a picnic lunch, this flaky, savory treat never fails to satisfy. The addition of boiled eggs adds an unexpected creaminess, while the garlic yogurt dip brings freshness and zing. Add in pickled cucumbers for contrast, and you’ve got a gourmet-level dish that hits all the right notes. Comforting, delicious, and endlessly adaptable—this is a must-try recipe for every season.
FAQ
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate the roll up to a day ahead, then bake before serving.
2. Can I freeze the baked roll?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze. Reheat in the oven until crisp.
3. What’s the best meat to use?
Ground beef, lamb, or a mix works best. Turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner version.
4. Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or grated carrot blend well without making it soggy.
5. How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?
Make sure the filling is cooled and not watery before rolling into the pastry.
6. Is there a vegan alternative?
You can substitute plant-based ground meat, vegan cheese, and a dairy-free yogurt for the sauce.
7. What cheese is best for melting inside the roll?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone melt beautifully and balance the flavors.
8. Can I make individual portions?
Yes, cut the pastry into smaller rectangles and bake as handheld rolls for parties.
9. Is the yogurt sauce essential?
No, but it really complements the richness of the roll. You could use tzatziki or sour cream instead.
10. Can I use shortcrust pastry instead?
Yes, though it will be more of a pie texture than a flaky roll—still delicious!