Introduction: Ground Meat Puff Pastry Pockets are a delightful, savory snack or meal that combines the flaky, buttery texture of puff pastry with a flavorful ground meat filling. Whether you’re craving something for a cozy dinner, a hearty appetizer, or an easy lunch, these pockets are versatile, quick to make, and simply irresistible. With ground meat of your choice (beef, chicken, turkey, or lamb), the combination of spices and herbs brings out a rich, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the light, crisp pastry. They’re perfect for parties, picnics, or any time you need something both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) ground beef (or any ground meat of your choice)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for warmth)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional, like cheddar or mozzarella)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 package of puff pastry (2 sheets)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions:
Prepare the filling:
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
Season the filling:
Stir in the cumin, paprika, cinnamon (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Prepare the puff pastry:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into squares (about 4-6 inches each).
Fill the pastry pockets:
Place a generous spoonful of the ground meat mixture in the center of each pastry square. If using cheese, sprinkle a little on top of the filling.
Seal the pockets:
Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape, depending on your preference. Press the edges tightly to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Egg wash:
Beat the egg and brush it over the top of each pastry pocket to give it a golden color when baked.
Bake:
Place the filled pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and flaky.
Cool and serve:
Let the pockets cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Description:
These Ground Meat Puff Pastry Pockets are a satisfying bite-sized treat with a crispy, flaky exterior and a savory, seasoned meat filling. Perfect for parties, casual gatherings, or as a hearty snack, they bring together simple ingredients in an irresistible combination. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or a meal, they are sure to please everyone.
Tips:
For a more balanced filling, you can add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach.
If you’re not a fan of puff pastry, you can try using phyllo dough, though it will result in a flakier texture.
You can make these ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Experiment with different ground meats (chicken, turkey, lamb) or add spices like curry powder, turmeric, or coriander to change the flavor profile.
If you prefer a slightly spicier flavor, add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the filling.
Variations:
Cheesy Meat Pockets: Add a bit of your favorite cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or feta to the filling for a creamy twist.
Veggie Pockets: For a vegetarian version, replace the ground meat with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas for a hearty, plant-based filling.
Breakfast Pockets: Fill the pockets with scrambled eggs, crumbled sausage, and cheese for a breakfast-inspired variation.
Corrections:
Make sure to properly seal the puff pastry pockets to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
If you are using frozen puff pastry, ensure it’s fully thawed before handling to avoid cracking or tearing.
Enjoy:
These Ground Meat Puff Pastry Pockets are perfect for any occasion! Whether you serve them at a party, for a family dinner, or as a snack, they are sure to be a hit. Flaky, crispy, and flavorful, they’re the perfect blend of convenience and taste. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces or a fresh salad on the side!