Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus Recipe
Let me tell you, this Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that feels fancy, yet it’s surprisingly simple to pull off. The flaky puff pastry layered with spiced ground beef and creamy hummus creates an irresistible combination that makes it perfect for a cozy dinner or even an impressive appetizer for guests. I remember the first time I made it, I was so excited about the contrast of textures and flavors—it really elevated a humble ground beef dish into something special.
What I love most about this Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus Recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or need a quick but stunning meal, it works beautifully every time. Plus, you get the added goodness of hummus, which not only adds flavor but a nice creamy texture that makes this puff pastry stand out among typical savory pies. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to this recipe for its rich, hearty, and slightly exotic twist.
Why This Recipe Works
- Flavor Harmony: The spices in the beef perfectly complement the creamy hummus, creating a balanced, rich taste.
- Textural Contrast: Flaky puff pastry around a tender, juicy filling offers a satisfying bite every time.
- Ease and Elegance: Simple ingredients come together fast but give you a dish that looks and tastes restaurant-worthy.
- Versatile Serving: Whether as a main or appetizer, it pleases crowds and works perfectly for leftovers.
Ingredients & Why They Work
This Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that pack big flavor when combined. Each element adds something special, whether it’s texture, aroma, or richness, making the end result more than just the sum of its parts.
- Puff Pastry: Provides that lovely golden, flaky crust that makes every bite irresistible.
- Egg (for egg wash): Gives the pastry a beautiful shiny finish and helps it brown evenly.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, adding a subtle fruity note and keeping the beef moist.
- Onion: Softens and sweetens when cooked, layering in essential savoriness.
- Garlic: Adds that punch of aroma and flavor everyone loves.
- Ground Beef: Lean but juicy, it’s the hearty, protein-packed centerpiece of the filling.
- Ground Cumin, Coriander & Paprika: These spices introduce warmth, earthiness, and smoky depth that balance richness beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and elevating all other flavors.
- Hummus: Adds creamy texture and a touch of Mediterranean flair, plus it’s a smart way to sneak in some chickpeas.
- Pine Nuts: Toasted for a nutty crunch that contrasts nicely with the softness of the filling.
- Fresh Parsley: Brightens and freshens every bite with a burst of greenery.
- Olive Oil (for drizzling): Finishes the dish with richness and glossy appeal.
Make It Your Way
One thing I really enjoy about this Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus Recipe is how easy it is to tweak depending on what you have or your taste preferences. Feel free to get creative — I always encourage you to make it your own.
- Variation: Sometimes I swap ground beef for ground lamb for a deeper, richer flavor that’s fantastic if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Spice it Up: Adding a pinch of chili flakes or a bit more paprika amps up the heat for those who like it spicy.
- Dairy-Free Option: The hummus naturally keeps this recipe dairy-free, but you could add a sprinkle of your favorite dairy-free cheese if you want some melty goodness.
- Vegetarian Twist: Try sautéed mushrooms and walnuts in place of beef for a hearty, plant-based version that’s just as satisfying.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus Recipe
Step 1: Get that Pastry Ready
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lay your thawed puff pastry sheet on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. I like to cut a “frame” by slicing about half an inch inside the edges—be careful not to cut all the way through, as this helps create a raised border once baked.
Prick the center gently with a fork to stop it from puffing too much in the middle. Brush the whole pastry sheet generously with beaten egg — this is key to lovely color and shine. Bake it for about 12 to 15 minutes till you see that perfect golden puff taking shape.
Step 2: Cook the Flavorful Beef Filling
While the pastry is baking, warm your olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Toss in the finely chopped onion and cook until it softens and turns translucent, usually around 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and let it get fragrant — it only needs about 30 seconds.
Next comes the star: ground beef. Break it up and cook until nicely browned all over. Then, stir in the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, and season well with salt and pepper. Allow this mix to cook another 2 to 3 minutes so the spices fully bloom into the meat.
Step 3: Assemble Like a Pro
Once the pastry is out of the oven and still warm, gently press down the center inside the “frame” to create a shallow well. Spread the creamy hummus evenly in this cavity — this layer is what makes this dish so uniquely delicious!
Top that with the spiced beef mixture, then sprinkle toasted pine nuts and freshly chopped parsley over everything. Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil to add gloss and flavor. Slice into squares while warm and enjoy!
Tips from My Kitchen
- Don’t Overfill the Pastry: I learned the hard way that too much filling can weigh down the pastry and make it soggy. Keep it balanced for the best texture.
- Toast Your Pine Nuts: Toasting brings out that fantastic nutty flavor, so don’t skip this step—it’s a simple upgrade that lifts the whole dish.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant punch that contrasts beautifully with the savory beef and hummus filling.
- Egg Wash Magic: Brushing the pastry with egg wash right before baking ensures you get that irresistible golden shine every single time.
How to Serve Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus Recipe
Garnishes
I always top the finished puff pastry with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and toasted pine nuts—it adds freshness and a lovely crunch. Sometimes, I drizzle a tiny bit of extra virgin olive oil to give it that final glossy touch and extra richness that makes everyone ask for seconds.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with a bright, crisp salad—think something with lemon vinaigrette and some crunchy cucumbers—and maybe some roasted or grilled veggies on the side. I also love serving it alongside a tangy yogurt sauce or a simple cucumber raita to balance the spices.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like to cut the puff pastry into smaller bite-sized squares and serve it on a wooden board with little bowls of extra hummus and olives. It makes for a gorgeous appetizer platter that guests love to graze on. You can also garnish with a few pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they keep well for up to 3 days. Just keep the puff pastry away from moisture as much as possible to avoid it getting soggy—sometimes I lay down some paper towels beneath to absorb any condensation.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze the assembled but unbaked puff pastry—wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to a month. When ready, bake it straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. It’s a lifesaver when you want a quick, impressive meal later.
Reheating
I reheat leftovers in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the puff pastry crisp. Avoid the microwave if you can, or the pastry gets soggy. A quick reheat this way restores the texture and flavor like it’s freshly made.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen puff pastry for this recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the puff pastry according to package instructions before you start assembling. This ensures it’s pliable and bakes evenly in the oven.
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What type of hummus works best in this recipe?
A good quality plain or garlic hummus works beautifully here. If you want to experiment, a roasted red pepper hummus adds a lovely smoky twist—but I usually stick to the classic version for balanced flavors.
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Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of walnuts and mushrooms for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly filling that’s just as satisfying.
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How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
Make sure to let the pastry bake fully before adding the hummus and filling. Also, avoid using overly wet fillings, and serve it relatively soon after assembling for the best crispness.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus Recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen because of how it marries simple ingredients into such an elegant dish. It’s perfect when I want to impress without hours in the kitchen. I hope you give it a try soon—you’ll love how the flaky pastry, spiced beef, and creamy hummus come together in every bite. Honestly, it’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug, and I’m sure you’ll cherish it as much as I do.
PrintGround Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
A delicious and savory Ground Beef Puff Pastry topped with creamy hummus, toasted pine nuts, and fresh parsley, perfect for a flavorful appetizer or light meal. This recipe combines flaky puff pastry with spiced ground beef and a smooth hummus base for a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Beef Mixture
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings and Garnish
- ½ cup hummus
- 2 Tablespoons pine nuts toasted
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lined baking sheet. Cut slits about ½ inch from the edges to form a square frame without cutting all the way through. Prick the center area with a fork to prevent puffing, then brush the entire pastry with the beaten egg. Bake for 15 minutes until golden and puffed.
- Make the Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Stir in ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Assemble: Once the puff pastry is baked, press down slightly in the center area. Spread the hummus evenly in the center of the pastry. Spoon the cooked beef mixture on top of the hummus layer. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and chopped fresh parsley over the beef. Drizzle with a little olive oil for added flavor.
- Serve: Slice the assembled puff pastry into squares and serve warm as an appetizer or light meal.
Notes
- Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed before working with it to avoid tearing.
- To toast pine nuts, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant, stirring frequently.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
- Use store-bought hummus or homemade for best flavor.
- This dish can be prepared ahead; assemble and refrigerate then bake just before serving for freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg