Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese

This savory puff pastry recipe is a wonderful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. It’s a quick and easy recipe to prepare, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or as an appetizer for gatherings and parties. The puff pastry provides a flaky, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the rich, savory filling. The minced meat, combined with aromatic vegetables, cheese, and herbs, forms the perfect filling that’s both hearty and satisfying. The added boiled eggs give the filling a bit more texture and a rich flavor, elevating the dish to the next level.

The tangy yogurt dip made with pickled cucumbers, garlic, and fresh yogurt complements the savory pastries, creating a refreshing contrast that balances the richness of the filling. The dip is easy to make and adds a creamy texture to every bite, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

This recipe is flexible, allowing you to adjust the filling and dip based on your preferences. You can try different meats or switch to a vegetarian filling with mushrooms, spinach, or tofu for a plant-based option. The dip can also be customized with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• Puff pastry (1 sheet or as needed)
• Butter (for greasing)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 300g minced meat (beef, chicken, or pork)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 100g cheese (grated, such as mozzarella or cheddar)
• 1 bunch of parsley (chopped)
• 2 boiled eggs (chopped)

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg yolk (for glazing)

For the Yogurt Dip:

• 2-3 pickled cucumbers (chopped)
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 3-4 tbsp white yogurt
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a pan, melt some butter and sauté the chopped onion until soft and golden.
   • Add the minced meat to the pan, season with salt, pepper, and dried basil, and cook until browned.
   • Once the meat is cooked, stir in the chopped boiled eggs, grated cheese, and chopped parsley. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
2. Assemble the Puff Pastry:
   • Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
   • Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into the desired shape (squares, rectangles, or circles).
   • Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each piece of pastry.
   • Fold the pastry over the filling to enclose it, pressing the edges together to seal.
   • Brush the top of each pastry with egg yolk for a golden finish.
3. Bake:
   • Place the filled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
4. Prepare the Yogurt Dip:
   • In a small bowl, mix the chopped pickled cucumbers, minced garlic, and yogurt. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the warm puff pastries with the yogurt dip on the side.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
• Enjoy as a snack or appetizer at parties or gatherings.
• Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea.
• Add some spicy mustard or ketchup as additional dipping options.

Cooking Tips:

• If you’re in a rush, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe.
• Make sure to fully cook the minced meat to avoid any raw taste in the filling.
• You can experiment with different cheeses or herbs to suit your preference.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Puff pastry provides a satisfying, flaky texture.
• Minced meat is a good source of protein.
• The yogurt dip adds a creamy, tangy contrast, with probiotics for gut health.

 

Additional Tips and Tricks:

1. Puff Pastry Handling:

   • If using store-bought puff pastry, make sure it’s fully thawed before use to ensure proper rolling and filling.
   • When rolling out the puff pastry, avoid using too much flour, as it can make the dough tough. A light dusting will suffice.

2. Filling Variations:

   • For added flavor, you can include sautéed mushrooms, olives, or roasted red peppers in the filling.
   • Swap the minced meat for shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation or use ground lamb for a richer flavor.

3. Cheese Options:

   • You can mix different cheeses like ricotta, feta, or provolone for more complexity in the filling. Cheese blends can provide a richer, creamier texture.
   • If you prefer a stronger flavor, try using blue cheese or aged cheddar.

4. Herb Customization:

   • While parsley and dill are used in the recipe, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for added aroma and freshness.
   • Fresh herbs in the filling will add a burst of flavor, while dried herbs like oregano can bring in a Mediterranean touch.

5. Make-Ahead Option:

   • If you want to save time, you can prepare the pastries and refrigerate them before baking. Simply brush them with the egg wash and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This way, you can enjoy a freshly baked snack whenever you’re ready.

Nutritional Information:

Approximate Nutritional Facts per Serving (1 pastry with dip):

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Protein: 10-12g (from minced meat, cheese, and eggs)
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g (from puff pastry and vegetables)
• Fat: 15-20g (from puff pastry, cheese, and butter)
• Saturated Fat: 7-9g (from cheese and butter)
• Cholesterol: 50-60mg (from eggs and dairy)
• Fiber: 2-3g (from vegetables and pastry)
• Sugar: 3-5g (from vegetables and yogurt dip)
• Sodium: 400-500mg (from meat, cheese, and seasoning)
• Vitamin A: 10% DV (from cheese and herbs)
• Vitamin C: 6% DV (from pickled cucumbers and herbs)
• Calcium: 10% DV (from cheese and yogurt)
• Iron: 10% DV (from minced meat and puff pastry)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This savory puff pastry with minced meat and cheese is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together crispy, flaky pastry with a flavorful, hearty filling. The addition of boiled eggs in the filling adds richness, while the tangy yogurt dip offers a refreshing contrast. Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for gatherings, this recipe is versatile and adaptable to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family meal, or enjoying a snack, this dish is sure to impress with its perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Variations and Customizations:

1. Vegan Version: Use plant-based minced meat (like lentils or soy protein) and non-dairy cheese to make this recipe vegan-friendly. Substitute the yogurt dip with a plant-based yogurt to maintain the creamy texture.

2. Gluten-Free Version: Opt for gluten-free puff pastry available in most supermarkets to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

3. Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, add some chopped chili flakes or hot sauce to the meat mixture for an extra spicy flavor. You can also top the pastries with spicy ketchup or mustard for more heat.

4. Mini Pastries: Instead of making large pastries, cut the puff pastry into smaller squares and make mini pastries. These bite-sized treats are perfect for appetizers or finger foods at parties.

5. Cheese Variations: For a stronger cheese flavor, add some crumbled feta or goat cheese to the filling. You can also experiment with sharp cheddar or Gruyère for a different twist on the flavor profile.

Storing and Reheating:

• Storage: Leftover pastries can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pastries in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispness. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, though the pastry won’t be as crisp.

Conclusion

This savory puff pastry recipe with minced meat and cheese is a delightful dish that can be made in just a few simple steps. The fluffy pastry, hearty filling, and tangy dip create a balanced and satisfying meal. Whether you’re entertaining guests or preparing a quick snack, this recipe will surely impress everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use other meats instead of minced meat? Yes! You can substitute the minced meat with chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian filling like mushrooms or tofu.
2. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pastries, refrigerate them, and then bake them when you’re ready to serve.
3. What can I use if I don’t have pickled cucumbers? You can use fresh cucumbers or dill relish as a substitute in the yogurt dip.
4. Can I freeze these pastries? Yes, you can freeze the assembled pastries before baking. Just thaw and bake as usual when ready to eat.
5. Can I make the yogurt dip spicier? Absolutely! Add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it a spicy kick.
6. What type of cheese is best for this recipe? Mozzarella, cheddar, or a combination of both works well for the filling.
7. How do I store leftover pastries? Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
8. Can I make this recipe without eggs? Yes, you can omit the boiled eggs in the filling if you prefer.
9. Is there a gluten-free option for puff pastry? Yes, gluten-free puff pastry is available at most grocery stores.
10. Can I serve these pastries with a different sauce? Of course! You can serve them with ketchup, mustard, or a creamy ranch dip if you prefer.