Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Filling
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
2. Add the minced meat to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Season the mixture with ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the meat.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly. Once cooled, stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well-combined.

#### Step 2: Assemble the Puff Pastries
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, unroll the puff pastry sheet. If needed, roll it out gently to smooth any creases or expand it slightly.
3. Cut the puff pastry sheet into squares or rectangles, depending on the size of the pastries you want to make. You should get about 4-6 pieces from one sheet of puff pastry.
4. Spoon the meat and cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry square, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to form a parcel or a triangle, pressing the seams together gently to seal. You can also fold the pastry into a simple rectangular shape, depending on your preference.

#### Step 3: Bake the Puff Pastry
1. Crack the egg into a small bowl and beat it lightly. Brush the tops of the filled pastries with the egg wash to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.
2. Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up, and the filling is bubbling slightly.
4. Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

#### Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
1. Garnish the pastries with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of color and freshness.
2. Serve these savory puff pastries warm, and enjoy them as a main dish, snack, or appetizer.

### Tips for Success

– **Meat Alternatives:** Feel free to substitute the minced meat with ground turkey, chicken, or lamb, depending on your preferences. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for added flavor and texture.
– **Cheese Options:** While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as feta, goat cheese, or even a spicy pepper jack to give your pastries a unique twist.
– **Add Some Heat:** For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or chili powder to the meat mixture.
– **Make It Ahead:** These savory puff pastries can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge for a few hours before baking. You can also freeze the assembled pastries and bake them directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

### Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe

**Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese** is a recipe that balances convenience and flavor. The flaky, golden pastry is the perfect vessel for the rich, savory filling, making each bite a delight. Whether you’re making them for a party, a cozy dinner at home, or a meal prep for the week, these pastries are versatile, filling, and always satisfying.

The combination of tender, seasoned meat and melted cheese wrapped in crispy puff pastry is irresistible and perfect for any time of day. Whether enjoyed as a snack, a light meal, or an appetizer at a gathering, these savory pastries are sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

### Conclusion

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and impressive dish, **Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese** is the answer. With its golden, flaky exterior and savory, cheesy filling, it’s the perfect balance of indulgence and ease. So next time you’re craving something hearty and delicious, grab a sheet of puff pastry and get cooking—this simple recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen!