Cheesy Ground Beef Puff is a savory pastry filled with flavorful minced beef and oozing melted cheese. This comforting dish is flaky, rich, and perfect for brunches, parties, or satisfying meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe takes simple ingredients—beef, cheese, and puff pastry—and transforms them into an elegant and hearty dish. It’s quick, portable, and customizable, making it a reliable favorite for busy households and entertaining alike.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper
- Paprika or chili powder
- Puff pastry sheets
- Grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- Egg (for egg wash)
Tips by Elsa:
- Let the filling cool before wrapping to prevent soggy pastry.
- Use store-bought puff pastry to save time.
- Add a touch of tomato paste for richness.
directions
- In a skillet, cook beef with onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika until browned. Let cool.
- Roll out puff pastry and cut into squares.
- Place beef mixture and cheese in the center of each square. Fold and seal edges.
- Brush with egg wash and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Tips by Elsa:
- Seal edges well to avoid cheese leakage.
- Prick the tops with a fork for steam release and even baking.
Servings and timing
Serves: 4–6
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Filling: Add chopped jalapeños or chili flakes.
- Vegetarian: Use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or lentils.
- Cheese Mix: Try gouda, gruyere, or feta for different flavors.
- Mini Puffs: Make smaller versions for party snacks.
- Breakfast Puff: Add scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage.
Tips by Elsa:
- Use parchment paper for easy baking and clean-up.
- Double batch and freeze for future meals.
storage/reheating
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Tips by Elsa:
- Avoid microwaving as it softens the pastry.
- Freeze baked or unbaked puffs for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I make the filling ahead?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for 2–3 days.
Is store-bought puff pastry okay?
Yes, it’s a great time-saver.
Can I use phyllo dough?
Yes, though the texture will be crispier and lighter.
What kind of cheese melts best?
Cheddar and mozzarella are excellent melting cheeses.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze before or after baking.
How do I prevent soggy bottoms?
Cool filling completely and avoid overstuffing.
Are these good for lunchboxes?
Yes, they travel well and are tasty even at room temperature.
Can I brush with milk instead of egg wash?
Yes, though it won’t be as shiny.
Do I need to thaw puff pastry first?
Yes, thaw until pliable but still cold.
Can I bake them in an air fryer?
Yes, at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Beef Puffs are flaky, hearty, and deeply satisfying. They’re easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, making them a go-to for weeknight dinners, brunch spreads, or impressive appetizers.