Description
Savory Puff Pastry Bites
Ingredients:
1 package of puff pastry sheets, thawed
1/2 lb (250 g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
Add the ground beef, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Pastry:
Roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut them into squares.
3. Assemble:
Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each square, top with shredded cheese, and fold over to form a pocket. Seal the edges with a fork.
4. Bake:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the pastry pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with beaten egg.
5. Cook:
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Garnish:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Thaw Pastry: Thaw puff pastry sheets in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for 30-40 minutes until pliable but still cold.
2. Cook Filling: In a skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in a little oil until soft. Add ground beef, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is fully browned. Drain any excess fat and let cool completely.
3. Prepare Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out each pastry sheet to smooth any seams. Cut into 3-inch squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
4. Assemble Bites: Place a heaping teaspoon of cooled beef filling in the center of each square. Top with a pinch of shredded cheese. Fold one corner over to the opposite corner to form a triangle. Press edges firmly to seal.
5. Crimp & Chill: Use the tines of a fork to crimp the sealed edges. Transfer the assembled bites to a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill for 15 minutes. This prevents over-spreading.
6. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush each pastry bite lightly with beaten egg. Bake for 20-25 minutes until deeply golden and puffed. Cool slightly before garnishing with parsley.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile bites are perfect for any occasion. Serve them as a hot appetizer with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or a cool sour cream and chive dip. For a heartier meal, pair them with a simple green salad or a bowl of tomato soup. They are excellent for brunch alongside scrambled eggs, or packed cold for picnics and lunchboxes.
How-to Summary
Thaw pastry. Cook beef with onion, garlic, and spices; cool. Roll and cut pastry into squares. Fill with beef and cheese, fold into triangles, and seal edges with a fork. Chill, brush with egg wash, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the unbaked bites, freeze them solid on the baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different filling? Absolutely. Cooked ground chicken, sausage, or a vegetarian mix of sautéed mushrooms and spinach work perfectly. Ensure all fillings are cooled and not too wet.
Why did my pastry not puff? The pastry may have been overworked or gotten too warm. Handle it minimally, keep it cold before baking, and ensure your oven is fully preheated.
How do I store leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven to restore crispness.
Can I use phyllo dough instead? Phyllo dough can be used but requires a different technique, involving brushing layers with butter. The result will be flakier and more delicate than puff pastry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm filling, which melts the pastry fat and prevents a proper rise.
- Overfilling the squares, causing leaks during baking.
- Not sealing the edges firmly, leading to filling spillage.
- Skipping the chilling step before baking, resulting in flat pastries.
- Under-baking; the pastry should be a deep, golden brown for optimal flavor and texture.
Conclusion
These Savory Puff Pastry Bites are a foolproof, crowd-pleasing recipe that combines flaky pastry with a rich, seasoned beef filling. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive appetizer or snack with minimal effort. Their make-ahead flexibility and endless filling variations make them a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!