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Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and releases its fat, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, if necessary. Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Finally, stir in the crispy bacon, then remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
2. Assemble the Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If you’re using a sheet of store-bought puff pastry, you may need to trim it slightly to fit your baking dish or pan.
Spoon the beef and bacon mixture onto the center of the puff pastry, leaving about an inch of space on all sides. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the filling.
3. Fold and Seal:
Carefully fold the edges of the puff pastry over the filling, creating a rustic, open-faced “envelope.” You can fold the edges over to partially cover the filling or leave the top exposed for a more rustic presentation—either way, the pastry will bake up golden and flaky.
Brush the exposed pastry edges with a beaten egg to give it a beautiful golden color as it bakes.
4. Bake:
Place the assembled pastry onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbling and melted. The filling should be hot and cooked through.
5. Serve:
Once the bake is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, then serve it up as a delicious main course or appetizer. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bacon Puff Pastry Bake
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyère, mozzarella, or a sharp blue cheese would all be excellent choices. A blend of cheeses can also add complexity and richness to the dish.
- Make It Lighter: To lighten the dish, you can substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for the beef, and reduce the amount of bacon or use turkey bacon.
- Add Vegetables: For an added burst of freshness and color, stir in some chopped mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers with the beef and bacon filling.
- Use Homemade Puff Pastry: While store-bought puff pastry is quick and convenient, homemade puff pastry will add an extra layer of flakiness and richness. If you have the time, it’s worth the effort!
- Freeze for Later: This bake can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer. Simply assemble the dish, freeze it before baking, and bake it straight from the freezer when you’re ready to serve. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
Cheesy Beef and Bacon Puff Pastry Bake is the perfect dish to enjoy during any season, combining rich flavors and textures into one irresistible package. The tender beef, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and flaky puff pastry create a harmonious blend of savory goodness that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight family meal, a cozy brunch, or a gathering with friends, this bake is sure to be a hit. It’s easy to make, comforting, and endlessly customizable—making it a dish that’s destined to become a classic in your recipe collection.
So, roll out that puff pastry, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this timeless culinary marvel. You won’t regret it!
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