Beer-Braised Beef & Beer Cheese Puff Pastry Bites

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef stew meat and brown it on all sides.
4. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
5. Pour in the bottle of beer and the beef broth, stirring to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper, cover, and simmer for 1-2 hours, until the beef is tender.
7. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
8. Meanwhile, roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into small squares.
9. In a bowl, mix the shredded cheddar cheese and beer cheese spread.
10. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture on each puff pastry square.
11. Top with a spoonful of the beer-braised beef.
12. Fold the puff pastry over the filling and seal the edges with a fork.
13. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
14. Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
15. Serve hot and enjoy these delightful bites!

Best ways to enjoy it

These Beer-Braised Beef & Beer Cheese Puff Pastry Bites are fantastic served hot from the oven. Consider pairing them with a fresh garden salad or some tangy pickles to balance the rich flavors. They also make a delicious addition to a charcuterie board, accompanied by a fruity mustard or a zesty dipping sauce.

How to store

To ensure your puff pastry bites stay fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked bites. Just assemble them, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. You can bake them directly from frozen, adjusting the baking time as necessary.

Helpful cooking tips

• Always let the beef cool before assembling; this prevents the puff pastry from becoming soggy.
• Brush the edges of the pastry with egg wash to achieve that beautiful golden color.
• If making a large batch, consider using a mix of different cheeses to add varied flavor profiles.

Creative twists

Try incorporating different herbs or spices into the beef mixture to customize the flavor! You could also swap the beef for ground turkey or a meat alternative for a lighter option. Adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder can give these bites a spicy kick, making them even more fun!

Common questions

What’s the prep time?

Expect about 30 minutes of prep time, with an additional 1-2 hours for simmering the beef.

Can I use a different type of beer?

Absolutely! A darker beer like stout or porter will lend a richer flavor, while a lighter lager can offer a more subtle taste.

How do I reheat the leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through, to maintain the pastry’s crispness.