Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese
Introduction
There’s something deeply comforting about a flaky, buttery puff pastry filled with juicy minced meat, melted cheese, and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re making them as an appetizer for guests, a snack for kids, or a quick weeknight dinner, this Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is one of my favorites because it’s:
- Ridiculously adaptable – Use whatever meat or cheese you have.
- Freezer-friendly – Great for prepping ahead and baking fresh.
- Satisfying and flavorful – With the perfect balance of crispy pastry, rich filling, and herbaceous notes.
It’s also an ideal way to use up leftover cooked meat or sneak veggies into a snack kids won’t resist.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing or sautéing)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 300g minced meat (beef, chicken, pork—or plant-based)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 100g grated cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or your favorite)
- 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
Swaps & Notes
- Meat: Swap in ground turkey, lamb, or even plant-based mince.
- Cheese: Add a blend of cheeses like provolone or fontina for richness.
- Herbs: Basil works great, but thyme or oregano are also lovely.
- Pastry: Puff pastry sheets are the easiest, but phyllo dough can work if you layer it.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook the filling: In a pan, melt butter and sauté the chopped onion until soft. Add the minced meat, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix in cheese and parsley to the cooled meat mixture.
- Roll out the puff pastry slightly and cut into equal rectangles or squares.
- Spoon filling onto one half of each piece. Fold the pastry over and seal edges with a fork.
- Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes or until puffed and deeply golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving. The filling will be piping hot!
Tips for Success
- Don’t overfill the pastry—this ensures even cooking and prevents bursting.
- Let the filling cool before adding cheese so it doesn’t get oily.
- Use a fork to crimp and seal tightly to keep all that cheesy goodness inside.
- Bake in the center rack for even heat circulation.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve these warm with:
- A dollop of sour cream or garlic yogurt dip
- Fresh greens or a cucumber-tomato salad
- Soup or broth for a light lunch combo
They also pair perfectly with dishes like:
- Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter
- This Dorito Casserole for a crunchy contrast
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo if you’re feeling extra Southern
- These Chicken Enchiladas to round out a buffet table
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a party-ready Tex-Mex vibe
Storage and Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap unbaked filled pastries tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. Bake straight from frozen—just add 5–7 more minutes.
- Reheat: Toast in a 350°F oven until warm and crisp again.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Looking for more savory crowd-pleasers?
- Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter
- This Dorito Casserole
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- These Chicken Enchiladas
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo
Final Thoughts
Savory puff pastries like these are one of those rare recipes that are as impressive as they are easy. You can prep them ahead, freeze them, or whip them up last minute—and they’re always a hit. Customize them to your liking, pair them with simple sides, and you’ve got a reliable crowd-pleaser.
If you make this, leave a comment or tag @chefmaniac on social—we’d love to see your spin!
Want more comfort food and clever shortcuts? Follow us for weekly favorites and fresh inspiration.
Leave a Reply