Are you craving a delicious, hearty meal that comes together in just minutes? This mouthwatering puff pastry and minced meat recipe is about to become your new go-to dish for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Combining the rich flavors of seasoned meat, creamy cheese, and flaky pastry, this recipe promises a satisfying meal that’s both quick to prepare and absolutely delectable.
Ingredients
- 500g ground meat (beef or mixed meat)
- 5 large eggs
- 80g tomato paste
- 30 ml soy sauce
- 80g all-purpose flour
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 100g shredded cheese
- 160g mayonnaise
- 2-3 pickled cucumbers, chopped
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and spices to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 20g butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, minced garlic, tomato paste, and soy sauce.
- Add salt and your favorite spices (such as black pepper, paprika, or dried herbs).
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Create the Egg Mixture
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
- Add flour and mayonnaise to the eggs, mixing until you have a uniform batter.
- Fold in the chopped pickled cucumbers and shredded cheese.
- Prepare the Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Grease a baking dish with vegetable oil and butter.
- Carefully lay out the puff pastry sheet, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides of the dish.
- Assemble the Pie
- Spread the seasoned meat mixture evenly across the pastry base.
- Pour the egg, cheese, and cucumber mixture over the meat.
- Gently spread to ensure even coverage.
- Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (approximate):
- Calories: 450-500
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 30g
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
- For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the meat mixture.
- Ensure your puff pastry is at room temperature for easier handling.
- Use a sharp knife to create decorative patterns on the pastry top before baking.
- Let the pie rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the filling to set.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with lentils or plant-based ground meat alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and puff pastry.
- Low-Fat Version: Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and use lean meat.
- Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A: Yes! You can assemble the pie and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q2: How do I know when the pie is fully cooked? A: The top should be golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
Q3: Can I freeze this puff pastry meat pie? A: Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q4: What side dishes work well with this recipe? A: A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light coleslaw complement this dish perfectly.
Q5: How can I make the pastry extra crispy? A: Brush the top with an egg wash before baking to achieve a golden, crisp surface.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to maintain pastry crispness.
- Freezing: Can be frozen before or after baking for convenient meal prep.
Enjoy your delicious and quick puff pastry meat pie – a true crowd-pleaser that proves gourmet meals don’t have to take hours to prepare!