Are you looking for a quick, impressive, and incredibly tasty dinner recipe? Look no further! These Beef Puff Pastry recipes are perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. They're surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and offer a delightful combination of tender beef and buttery, flaky puff pastry. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 sheet (14.1 ounces) refrigerated puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. This creates a rich and flavorful base for our puff pastry delight.
Step 4: Assemble the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Spread the beef mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing the edges to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative finish. Brush the top with the beaten egg for a golden-brown crust. Cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the beef puff pastry cool slightly before slicing and serving. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Success:
- For extra flavor, try adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard to the beef filling.
- If you want a cheesier puff pastry, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Gruyere cheese over the beef mixture before folding the pastry.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when browning the beef; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- For a crispier crust, bake the puff pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Variations:
- Spicy Beef Puff Pastry: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the beef filling for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Beef Puff Pastry: Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots to the beef filling for a heartier meal.
- Chicken Puff Pastry: Substitute ground chicken for the ground beef for a lighter option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on specific ingredients used, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This delicious beef puff pastry recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both easy and incredibly rewarding. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, making it a recipe you'll want to add to your regular rotation of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy the delicious outcome of your culinary efforts!