Hearty Stuffed Pastry Bake with Meat, Vegetables, and Cheese

### Instructions:

**1. Prepare the Filling:**
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add the chopped onions, bell pepper, and zucchini to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened.

Add the minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper, and continue to cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and beef broth, then let the mixture simmer for 5–10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together. Once the mixture is cooked through, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well combined.

**2. Assemble the Pastry Bake:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your first sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the cooled meat and vegetable filling onto the center of the pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border on all sides.

Place the second sheet of puff pastry over the filling, and gently press down around the edges to seal the pastry. Use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring the filling stays inside. Cut a few slits in the top pastry layer to allow steam to escape while baking.

**3. Egg Wash and Baking:**
Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg to give it a beautiful golden color when baked. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.

**4. Serve and Enjoy:**
Remove the stuffed pastry from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This hearty, savory pastry bake is delicious when served warm and can be paired with a simple salad or roasted vegetables on the side for a complete meal.

### Tips and Variations:
– **Vegetarian Version:** For a vegetarian version, simply swap the meat for additional vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or even lentils.
– **Cheese Options:** Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors. Gruyère, feta, or goat cheese would all work beautifully in this dish.
– **Add a Sauce:** For extra richness, you can serve the pastry bake with a side of marinara sauce or a creamy garlic sauce.

### Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This **Hearty Stuffed Pastry Bake with Meat, Vegetables, and Cheese** is incredibly versatile and can be customized to fit your tastes. The combination of crispy pastry and savory filling makes each bite satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to keep everyone coming back for more!

### Final Thoughts:
Take your meals to the next level with this **Hearty Stuffed Pastry Bake**. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. The savory meat, vegetables, and cheese come together in a crispy, golden pastry that everyone will love. Try it out for your next meal, and watch how quickly it becomes a go-to recipe in your kitchen!