Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus

If you love a perfect mix of flaky, savory, and creamy delights, you are going to adore this Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus. This dish brings together tender, spiced ground beef layered atop luscious hummus, all wrapped in a golden, buttery puff pastry crust that simply melts in your mouth. Each bite is bursting with Middle Eastern-inspired flavors, balanced by the richness of the pastry and a delightful crunch from toasted pine nuts. Whether you’re making an appetizer for friends or a satisfying main course, this recipe is as impressive as it is approachable, promising to become a favorite in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus lies in its simple yet essential ingredients that each brings something special to the party — from the aromatic spices that lift the beef filling to the creamy hummus that adds smooth texture, every ingredient plays a key role.

• 1 sheet puff pastry: Provides a flaky, buttery base that bakes into a perfect golden crust.
• 1 egg (beaten): Used as an egg wash to give the pastry a shiny, appetizing finish.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and is used to sauté the onions and garlic.
• 1 small onion (finely chopped): Brings sweetness and depth to the beef filling.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a fragrant punch that complements the beef beautifully.
• 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base seasoned to perfection.
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin: Infuses a warm, earthy flavor typical of Middle Eastern cuisine.
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a subtle citrusy note enhancing the savory beef.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Gives a mild smokiness and beautiful color.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to balance and bring out the natural flavors.
• ½ cup hummus: Creamy and rich, providing a luscious contrast between the beef and pastry.
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts: Add a delightful crunch and nutty flair as a finishing touch.
• Fresh parsley (chopped): Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes and color.
• Olive oil (for drizzling): A final drizzle enhances flavor and adds a glossy finish.

How to Make Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C). Lay your thawed puff pastry sheet neatly on a lined baking sheet. Carefully cut slits about half an inch from the edges forming a frame—don’t cut all the way through because this border puffs up to create a beautiful rim. Then, prick the center area with a fork so that section stays flat when baking. Brush the entire sheet with the beaten egg wash, which gives the crust that irresistible golden shine. Bake it for 12 to 15 minutes until perfectly puffed and glorious in color.

Step 2: Make the Beef Mixture

While your pastry is baking, heat olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté until it softens and begins to turn translucent, about three minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for just 30 seconds to release its aroma—be careful not to burn it! Next, add the ground beef, breaking it up as it browns evenly. Once the beef is no longer pink, sprinkle in your spices—cumin, coriander, paprika—and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Cook the mixture for another two to three minutes so all those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble the Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus

When the puff pastry is baked and still warm, press down the center gently to create a slight well. Spread an even layer of creamy hummus across this lowered section. Then, spoon the fragrant beef mixture on top of the hummus, distributing it evenly. Finish with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts and freshly chopped parsley for that pop of green and texture. A light drizzle of olive oil over everything adds a luscious richness and a shiny finish.

Step 4: Serve

Slice the assembled puff pastry into squares or rectangles and serve warm. The crispy, flaky pastry combined with the creamy hummus and savory beef is a showstopper on any table.

How to Serve Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus

Garnishes

Fresh parsley and toasted pine nuts are not only delicious but also add color and texture, turning this dish into a feast for the eyes and palate. For an extra fresh touch, a squeeze of lemon or a few pomegranate seeds sprinkled on top can elevate the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides like a crisp cucumber and tomato salad or tangy pickled vegetables. You might also serve it alongside a dollop of tzatziki or a simple green salad dressed in lemon and olive oil for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the pastry squares on a large wooden board with dollops of extra hummus for dipping. Or build mini individual tartlets using cut puff pastry rounds to make appetizer-sized bites perfect for parties. Another creative twist is to add a layer of roasted vegetables between the hummus and beef for even more flavor complexity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the pastry’s texture as best as possible.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked puff pastry wrapped well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the flaky layers and fresh flavors.

Reheating

The best way to reheat this dish is in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the pastry regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving to keep that wonderful flakiness intact.

FAQs

Can I use ground lamb instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground lamb adds a rich, slightly gamey flavor that pairs wonderfully with the Middle Eastern spices and hummus. Just cook it the same way you would the ground beef.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes! You can swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat substitute or use spiced cooked lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian filling. The hummus and puff pastry will still provide plenty of delicious texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?

Pricking the center area of the pastry before baking and baking the puff pastry partially on its own helps create a sturdy base. Also, pressing down the center after baking and spreading a thin hummus layer acts as a moisture barrier before adding the beef.

Can I prepare the beef filling in advance?

Definitely! The beef mixture can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. When ready to assemble, gently reheat the filling before layering it onto the hummus-spread pastry.

What type of hummus works best in this recipe?

A classic, smooth hummus works perfectly here, but feel free to experiment with flavored varieties like roasted red pepper or garlic hummus for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Puff Pastry with Hummus is truly a celebration of comforting and vibrant flavors wrapped in flaky, golden pastry. It’s perfect for casual family dinners, impressing guests at your next get-together, or simply treating yourself to something special. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of those recipes you’ll happily turn to time and again for its flavor, ease, and just plain deliciousness.