Introduction
Experience a culinary fusion that transforms the iconic Philly cheesesteak into irresistible, cheese-filled breadsticks. This recipe combines the rich flavors of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crispy puff pastry, creating a delightful appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Filling
- 250g ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 100g shredded mozzarella
- 80g shredded cheddar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon mild mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
For the Pastry
- 1 rectangular puff pastry sheet (230g)
- 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
- Extra parsley for garnish
Detailed Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat
- Sauté chopped onions for 2 minutes
- Add bell peppers, cook 3 minutes until tender
- Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper
- Cook 6-8 minutes, breaking meat into small pieces
- Remove from heat
- Mix in mustard, half the cheeses, and parsley
- Stir until cheese begins to melt
Step 2: Prepare the Breadsticks
- Preheat oven to 200°C (fan setting)
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper
- Unroll puff pastry
- Cut into 4 equal long strips
Step 3: Assemble
- Place beef mixture in a line down center of each pastry strip
- Fold edges slightly, leaving top partially open
- Seal ends to prevent cheese leakage
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top
- Brush exposed pastry edges with egg yolk
Step 4: Bake
- Bake 15-20 minutes
- Pastry should be golden brown
- Cheese should be melted and slightly gratinéed
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes
Expert Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Drain excess moisture from beef
- Prepare filling in advance for deeper flavor
- Don’t overfill pastry strips
- Use high-quality cheese for best melting
- Ensure pastry edges are sealed
Delicious Variations and Substitutions
- Use red bell peppers for sweetness
- Add a touch of chili for heat
- Try different cheese combinations
- Substitute beef with chicken or vegetarian protein
- Experiment with different mustards
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make these ahead of time? Prepare filling in advance, assemble before baking.
Q2: How to reheat? Oven at 150°C for 10 minutes, avoid microwave.
Q3: Can I freeze these? Freeze unbaked, thaw before baking.
Q4: What to serve with? Serve with a light salad or dipping sauce.
Q5: Gluten-free options? Use gluten-free puff pastry alternative.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate up to 2 days
- Store in airtight container
- Reheat in oven to maintain crispness
- Best consumed within 24 hours
- Not recommended for freezing after baking
Bon appétit!