Description
Ground Beef Puff Pastry Rolls
Ingredients:
1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
250g ground beef
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat
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Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened
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Add ground beef and cook until browned
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Stir in bell pepper, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then let it cool
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2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
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Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into rectangles.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
Place a spoonful of the beef filling along one edge of each pastry rectangle.
Roll tightly and seal the edges by pressing gently
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4. Bake:
Place the rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush each roll with the beaten egg for a golden finish
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown
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5. Serve:
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm as a snack or appetizer
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect rolls every time. First, ensure your puff pastry is thawed but still cold; if it gets too warm, it becomes sticky and hard to handle. For the filling, cook the onions and garlic until fragrant but not browned to build a sweet base. When browning the beef, break it into very small crumbles for an even texture. Let the filling cool completely before assembling—a warm filling will melt the pastry fat, preventing a proper rise. When rolling, avoid overfilling; use about 1.5 tablespoons per rectangle. Seal the long edge tightly, then gently press the ends to close.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile rolls are perfect for any occasion. Serve them as a hot appetizer with a dipping sauce like spicy sriracha mayo, cool tzatziki, or a simple marinara. For a party, arrange them on a platter with fresh herb garnishes. They also make a fantastic lunch or light dinner alongside a crisp green salad or a bowl of roasted tomato soup. For a heartier meal, pair them with garlic mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.
How-to Summary
In summary: Thaw pastry. Sauté onion, garlic, and beef. Mix in peppers, tomato paste, and spices. Cool filling. Roll out pastry, cut into rectangles, and add filling. Roll tightly, seal, and place seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden. Garnish and serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the rolls, place them on the baking sheet, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Can I use a different meat? Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, lamb, or a plant-based ground meat substitute work well. Adjust seasonings to complement the protein.
My pastry didn’t puff up. What happened? The most common cause is the filling being too warm when assembled, which melts the butter layers in the pastry. Ensure the filling is completely cool. Also, avoid over-handling the pastry.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy.
Can I freeze them? You can freeze unbaked or baked rolls. For unbaked, freeze on the sheet pan, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes. Reheat baked frozen rolls in the oven.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm filling: This melts the pastry fat, leading to dense, greasy rolls.
- Overfilling the pastry: This makes rolling difficult and can cause seams to burst open during baking.
- Not sealing the edges properly: A poor seal will result in the roll unraveling. Use egg wash as a “glue” if needed.
- Skipping the egg wash: The egg wash is crucial for achieving a deep golden brown, glossy finish.
- Baking on an unlined sheet: Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Conclusion
These Ground Beef Puff Pastry Rolls are a simple yet impressive dish that combines savory, spiced beef with flaky, buttery pastry. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a perfect batch every time. They are wonderfully adaptable for various occasions and dietary preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe, experiment with your favorite fillings, and enjoy the delicious results.