- Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. - Cook the minced meat:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Add the minced meat to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 7-10 minutes until the meat is browned and fully cooked. - Season the meat mixture:
Once the meat is cooked through, add the dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes. - Assemble the puff pastry:
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a floured surface. Cut the pastry into 4 equal squares or rectangles, depending on the size you prefer. Spoon a generous amount of the cooked minced meat mixture onto the center of each pastry square, leaving a small border around the edges. - Add the cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the meat mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. - Fold and seal the pastries:
Fold the puff pastry over the filling to form a pocket or triangle. Press the edges together with a fork to seal them. If you like, you can brush the top of each pastry with a beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish. - Bake the pastries:
Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy. - Serve:
Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving Suggestions: These savory puff pastries are great on their own or served with a side of dipping sauce like tomato ketchup, tzatziki, or spicy mayo. They’re perfect for parties, gatherings, or even as a quick weeknight meal.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes to retain their crispiness. You can also freeze the baked pastries for up to 2 months and reheat them directly from frozen.
Variants:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the minced meat with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option.
- Different Cheese Options: Use feta, goat cheese, or a sharp cheese like Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes, chopped jalapeños, or hot sauce to the meat mixture for an extra spicy twist.
FAQ:
- Can I make these puff pastries ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the filled pastries and refrigerate or freeze them before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if frozen.
- Can I use homemade puff pastry? Absolutely! If you have the time, homemade puff pastry works wonderfully in this recipe.
- Can I add other veggies to the filling? Yes! Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the meat filling for added texture and flavor.
This Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese is a delicious, easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy golden crust, savory filling, and melted cheese, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!
