Description
Cheesy Beef Pastry Rolls
Ingredients:
500g ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 pack puff pastry sheets
1 egg (beaten for egg wash)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove excess grease. Add onion, garlic, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes. Let cool.
2. Add Cheese:
Once the beef mixture cools, stir in the grated cheddar cheese.
3. Prepare Pastry:
Roll out puff pastry sheets and cut into rectangles. Place a spoonful of beef mixture in the center of each rectangle. Roll the pastry tightly, sealing the edges with a little water.
4. Egg Wash:
Place the rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush each roll with beaten egg.
5. Bake:
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat thoroughly.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring, for 5-7 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.
3. Season & Cool: Stir in the paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for another minute. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and allow it to cool completely to room temperature. This step is crucial to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
4. Add Cheese: Once the beef is cool, fold in the grated cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
5. Assemble Rolls: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet slightly. Cut into 8-10 even rectangles. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the beef mixture along the center of each rectangle. Moisten the edges with water, fold the pastry over the filling, and press firmly to seal. For a classic roll shape, you can roll from one long end to the other.
6. Bake: Place sealed rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush generously with beaten egg wash. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes until puffed and deep golden brown.
7. Rest & Garnish: Let the rolls cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile rolls are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. For a party, serve them with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo. As a main course, pair them with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal. They are also excellent for packed lunches and picnics.
How-to Summary
Create a seasoned beef and onion filling, cool it, then mix in cheddar cheese. Encase spoonfuls of the mixture in rectangles of puff pastry, seal the edges, and brush with egg wash. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes until golden and puffed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes. You can assemble the rolls, place them on the baking sheet, and freeze them solid before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. Mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend work wonderfully. For a stronger flavor, try Gruyère or a blue cheese crumble.
My pastry didn’t puff up. What happened? The pastry may have been over-handled, warming the butter. Ensure your filling is completely cool before assembling, and handle the pastry quickly. Also, check that your oven is fully preheated.
How do I store leftovers? Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling? Definitely. Consider adding finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, corn, or a tablespoon of tomato paste for extra depth. For a kick, add a pinch of chili flakes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a warm filling: This melts the butter in the pastry before baking, leading to a greasy, flat result. Always cool the filling completely.
- Overfilling the pastry: Too much filling makes rolls difficult to seal and can cause bursting during baking. Use a moderate spoonful.
- Neglecting the egg wash: The egg wash is essential for achieving a beautiful, glossy, golden-brown finish. Don’t skip it.
- Not sealing edges properly: Use water or a dab of egg wash to seal the pastry edges firmly to prevent the filling from leaking out.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Beef Pastry Rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining savory beef, melted cheese, and flaky pastry in one irresistible bite. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can easily master this recipe. They are wonderfully adaptable for any occasion, from casual family dinners to entertaining guests. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious, homemade results.