This savory-sweet puff pastry bake proves that apples are not just for desserts. Juicy minced meat, caramelized onions, thin apple slices, and melted cheese come together inside a buttery, golden pastry. The result is rich, balanced, and comforting, with just enough sweetness to lift the savory filling. It works beautifully for lunch, dinner, or a relaxed weekend meal.
Ingredients
- 400 g minced meat, beef, pork, or a mix
- 1 sheet puff pastry, about 250 g
- 1 apple, peeled, cored, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 100 g grated cheese, Gouda or mozzarella
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon flour, for dusting
Instructions
Prepare the meat filling
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced meat and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and a pinch of rosemary. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Bind and freshen
Once the meat is warm rather than hot, mix in the beaten egg and chopped parsley. Set aside.
Caramelize the onions
In a separate pan, melt another tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced onion and sugar, cooking slowly until soft and golden. Set aside.
Prepare the apples
Slice the apple thinly and toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Assemble the pastry
Lightly flour the work surface and roll out the puff pastry. Brush lightly with melted butter. Spoon the meat mixture down the center, then layer caramelized onions, apple slices, and grated cheese on top.
Fold and bake
Fold the pastry over the filling and seal the edges well. Brush the top with the remaining melted butter and sprinkle lightly with rosemary. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 25 to 30 minutes, until puffed and deeply golden.
Serve
Let rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally sprinkled with fresh parsley.
Why This Recipe Works
The richness of the meat and cheese is balanced by the freshness of apple and herbs. Caramelized onions add depth, while puff pastry keeps everything light and crisp. Each slice delivers contrast in texture and flavor without feeling heavy.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 170°C for 10 to 12 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the pastry. The unbaked pastry can be frozen for up to one month and baked after thawing.
This savory-sweet minced meat and apple puff pastry bake is a simple way to bring something unexpected yet comforting to the table, using familiar ingredients in a fresh combination.
