Greek Beef & Feta Hot Pockets

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Step 1

Keep the filling dry: Excess moisture can make the pastry soggy.

Step 2

Cool the filling completely: Warm filling can soften the puff pastry and prevent it from puffing properly.

Step 3

Keep pastry cold: If it becomes soft or sticky, refrigerate the assembled pockets before baking.

Step 4

1. Make the filling

Step 5

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces.

Step 6

Add onion and bell pepper. Cook 5–6 minutes, until softened and most of the moisture has evaporated.

Step 7

Add garlic, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, cumin, cinnamon, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 8

Remove from heat and stir in parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 9

Transfer to a shallow dish and cool completely.

Step 10

2. Prepare the pastry

Step 11

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 12

Keep the puff pastry cold. Unfold both sheets and cut each along its fold lines into 3 long strips, giving you 6 strips total.

Step 13

3. Assemble

Step 14

Divide the cooled beef mixture among the pastry strips, placing it on one half of each strip. Leave about a ½-inch border.

Step 15

Divide the feta and shredded kasseri or mozzarella among the pockets.

Step 16

Whisk together the egg and water. Brush the exposed pastry edges with egg wash.

Step 17

Fold the empty pastry half over the filling. Press out excess air and seal the edges firmly with a fork.

Step 18

Place on the baking sheet and cut 3 small slits in the top of each pocket.

Step 19

4. Chill

Step 20

Refrigerate or freeze the assembled pockets for 20–30 minutes, until the pastry is cold and firm.

Step 21

Meanwhile, heat oven to 400°F.

Step 22

5. Bake

Step 23

Brush the chilled pockets with egg wash and sprinkle generously with sesame seeds.

Step 24

Bake 22–27 minutes, until deeply golden, crisp, and puffed.

Step 25

6. Make the garlic-herb butter

Step 26

Mix melted butter, garlic, parsley, and oregano.

Step 27

Brush the hot pockets lightly with the garlic-herb butter immediately after removing them from the oven.

Step 28

Let cool 5–10 minutes before serving.

Step 29

Serving Ideas

Step 30

Serve warm with:

Step 31

- Tzatziki or marinara sauce

Step 32

- Greek salad

Step 33

- Maroulosalata

Step 34

- Marinara or tomato sauce