Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese

Time Required:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

• Cooling Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: ~50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon butter or oil (for greasing/sautéing)

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 300g minced meat (beef, chicken, or pork – your choice)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 100g cheese, grated (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)

• 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped

For the Pastry:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed if frozen

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Optional: sesame seeds or nigella seeds for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.

3. Add minced meat and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon—about 8–10 minutes.

4. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Stir to combine.

5. Turn off the heat and mix in the chopped parsley.

6. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then fold in the grated cheese.

Tip: You can prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.

Step 2: Assemble the Pastries

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry sheet (if needed) and cut into rectangles or squares, depending on your preferred size.

3. Place 1–2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each piece.

4. Fold over the pastry to form a triangle or rectangle (like a hand pie or turnover). Press the edges with a fork to seal tightly.

5. Arrange pastries on the baking tray. Brush the tops with beaten egg.

6. Optionally, sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds for extra texture and flavor.

Step 3: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.

2. Let cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with yogurt dip, garlic sauce, or chili ketchup.

• Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a full meal.

• These also taste great at room temperature—perfect for lunchboxes or picnic baskets.

Variations

• Add spice: Mix in chili flakes, paprika, or ground cumin for a spicier twist.

• Vegetable boost: Add finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the filling.

• Cheese lovers: Mix cheeses like feta, gouda, or even blue cheese for a stronger flavor.

❄️ Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze before baking for up to 1 month. Bake straight from frozen at 200°C for 25–30 minutes.

• Reheat: Use oven or air fryer for crispiness; avoid microwave if possible to keep the pastry flaky.

A Note on Origin

These savory meat-filled puff pastries resemble dishes found in Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Balkan cuisines—similar to börek or sambousek—bringing rich, comforting flavors in a buttery crust.

❤️ Enjoy!

Golden, flaky, cheesy, and full of herby meat filling—these savory puff pastries are pure comfort in every bite. Ideal for gatherings, family dinners, or your next snack craving.