Cheesy beef puff pastry pockets

These cheesy beef puff pastry pockets are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a quick dinner. Flaky puff pastry envelopes a savory ground beef filling with melted cheese and flavorful seasonings. They’re crispy on the outside and oozy on the inside.

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Ingredients

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (8–10 oz), thawed

• 1/2 pound ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup tomato paste or ketchup

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika or chili powder (optional)

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• 1 tablespoon water

Optional additions:

• 1/4 cup finely diced bell pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (oregano, thyme, or parsley)

• Pinch of crushed red pepper for heat

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef.

2. Cook, breaking it apart, until browned.

3. Add diced onion, garlic, and optional bell pepper; cook until softened.

4. Stir in tomato paste or ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs.

5. Cook 2–3 more minutes until mixture is well combined and slightly thickened.

6. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

7. Stir in shredded cheese (reserve a few tablespoons if you want some on top).

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Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.

2. Cut into squares, about 4×4 inches each.

3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

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Step 3: Assemble the Pockets

1. Place 2–3 tablespoons of the beef filling in the center of each puff pastry square.

2. Fold the pastry over to form a triangle or rectangle.

3. Press edges with a fork to seal completely.

4. Brush the top with egg wash (egg + 1 tablespoon water).

5. Optional: sprinkle extra cheese on top.

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Step 4: Bake

• Bake 18–22 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.

• Remove from oven and let cool 5 minutes before serving.

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Tips for Perfect Pockets

• Don’t overfill, or the pastry may burst during baking.

• Chill the filling slightly before filling to prevent the pastry from getting soggy.

• For extra crispiness, brush the edges with a little more egg wash.

• You can freeze unbaked pockets for up to 1 month; bake directly from frozen with a few extra minutes.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with ketchup, ranch, or a spicy dipping sauce.

• Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.

• Great for parties, lunches, or picnics.