Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese

### **Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Filling:**
– In a large pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
– Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
– Add the minced meat to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Stir occasionally until browned and cooked through.
– Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and tomato paste (or ketchup). If you like a little heat, you can add chili flakes to the mixture.
– Once the meat is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the grated cheese and breadcrumbs (optional). This will help bind the filling and give it a richer texture.

2. **Prepare the Puff Pastry:**
– Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the puff pastry packaging (usually around 400°F or 200°C).
– Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If your pastry is pre-rolled, simply unroll it.
– Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on the size you want for your puff pastry pockets.

3. **Assemble the Pastries:**
– Place a spoonful of the minced meat and cheese filling in the center of each puff pastry square.
– Fold the pastry over the filling to form a pocket or triangle, ensuring the edges are sealed by pressing down with a fork. This will help keep the filling inside while baking.

4. **Bake:**
– Arrange the filled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Brush the tops of the pastries with a little olive oil or melted butter for a golden, crispy finish.
– Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
– Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

### **Variations:**

– **Vegetarian Version:** For a meat-free alternative, swap the minced meat for sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. Add some ricotta or feta cheese to create a flavorful filling.
– **Spicy Version:** Add some diced chili peppers, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to the filling if you enjoy a bit of spice.
– **Herbs and Spices:** You can customize the herbs based on your preference. Fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary can add a fragrant touch to the filling.

### **Serving Suggestions:**

These savory puff pastries can be served as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. They pair wonderfully with a simple side salad or dipping sauces like ranch dressing, ketchup, or a tangy mustard sauce. They are also fantastic alongside a warm bowl of soup, like tomato or a creamy vegetable blend.

### **Why This Recipe Works:**
– **Flaky and Buttery Pastry**: Puff pastry is known for its crisp, airy texture, and when baked, it becomes beautifully golden and flaky. This texture perfectly complements the savory, flavorful meat filling.
– **Cheese Melts Perfectly**: The cheese in the filling melts into the meat, binding it together while adding richness and flavor to every bite.
– **Quick & Customizable**: You can adjust the filling to your taste, making it as spicy or as cheesy as you like. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for last-minute meal preparations.

### **Conclusion:**

This **Savory Puff Pastry with Minced Meat and Cheese** recipe is perfect for those days when you need something both hearty and quick to prepare. With its flaky pastry, savory filling, and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. So next time you’re in the mood for a delicious, customizable treat, this recipe is the way to go!