Cheesy Ground Beef Roll: A Savory and Indulgent Delight
The Cheesy Ground Beef Roll is a mouthwatering, savory dish that takes comfort food to a new level. This dish combines seasoned ground beef with gooey melted cheese, all wrapped up in a tender, golden crust. Perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or a special weeknight treat, the Cheesy Ground Beef Roll delivers on flavor and satisfaction. It’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile meal for any occasion.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the basic recipe for making Cheesy Ground Beef Roll, explore some advanced techniques to enhance the dish, provide tips for storing leftovers, and suggest dietary adaptations for different needs.
For more cheesy and hearty roll recipes, check out Cheesy Beef Roll on Taste of Home and Ground Beef Roll Recipes on Allrecipes.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Roll:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra texture)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 package puff pastry sheets (or pizza dough)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Season the Meat: Add Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture, stirring to combine. Then, add the breadcrumbs (if using) and milk, mixing until everything is well combined. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cook until the cheese is melted and the mixture is thickened.
- Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheets (or pizza dough) on a floured surface. Roll each sheet into a rectangle, about 12×8 inches in size.
- Assemble the Roll: Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the center of the pastry, spreading it evenly across the length of the sheet, leaving some room at the edges. Carefully roll the pastry around the filling, pinching the edges to seal the roll.
- Apply the Egg Wash: Place the rolled beef pastry seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top of the roll with the beaten egg to give it a golden finish while baking.
- Bake the Roll: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the Cheesy Ground Beef Roll for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Once baked, allow the roll to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Advanced Techniques for Cheesy Ground Beef Roll
1. Add Extra Veggies:
For more flavor and nutrition, consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the beef filling. These vegetables will add color, texture, and freshness to the roll, making it even more delicious.
2. Try Different Cheeses:
While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties. Mozzarella will add a gooey, stretchy texture, while Parmesan offers a nutty, sharp contrast to the beef. Mixing cheeses can create a delightful cheesy experience.
3. Use Different Fillings:
If you want to make the recipe even more indulgent, add cream cheese or ricotta cheese to the beef mixture for extra creaminess. You could also swap the beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation.
4. Spice It Up:
If you enjoy a little heat, add chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the beef mixture. This will give your Cheesy Ground Beef Roll a nice kick without overpowering the flavors.
5. Make a Double Roll:
For a more substantial meal, make a double layer by rolling two smaller beef rolls inside each other. This creates a delicious spiral when you slice into it and adds visual appeal to the dish.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
How to Store:
Leftover Cheesy Ground Beef Roll can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The pastry may lose some of its crispiness, but the flavors will continue to develop.
Freezing Tips:
To freeze the Cheesy Ground Beef Roll, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Reheating Tips:
To reheat leftovers, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the roll for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes, but the pastry may lose some crispiness.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Gluten-Free:
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the puff pastry with gluten-free puff pastry or a gluten-free pizza dough. Be sure to check that your Worcestershire sauce and breadcrumbs are also gluten-free.
Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly:
For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, substitute the pastry with almond flour-based dough or use zucchini ribbons as a wrap. These options are lower in carbs but still provide a satisfying texture.
Dairy-Free:
To make the Cheesy Ground Beef Roll dairy-free, swap the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative (such as cashew cheese or vegan cheese). Use dairy-free butter for the egg wash or skip it altogether and use a dairy-free milk for brushing.
Vegetarian/Vegan:
For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with vegetable crumbles, lentils, or black beans. You can also use vegan cheese and vegan puff pastry to make this recipe completely plant-based.
FAQs About The Recipe
1. Can I use a different type of pastry?
Yes! While puff pastry works great for a flaky, golden exterior, you can also use pizza dough, phyllo dough, or even crescent roll dough for a different texture.
2. How can I make the roll spicier?
To add some heat, mix in chopped jalapeños, chili powder, or cayenne pepper into the beef filling. You can also serve the roll with a side of hot sauce or salsa.
3. Can I make the Cheesy Ground Beef Roll ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the roll and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply assemble the roll, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and bake it when ready.
4. Can I add different fillings to the beef roll?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with ingredients like mushrooms, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a more complex flavor profile.
5. Can I make this recipe without cheese?
While cheese is a key ingredient, you can make a delicious version without it by using more seasoned beef, adding tomato paste, or incorporating vegan cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
The Cheesy Ground Beef Roll is an indulgent and satisfying meal that combines savory beef, gooey cheese, and a perfectly golden pastry. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a dinner party. This dish will surely become a favorite, and with endless ways to adapt it to your tastes, you’ll never tire of this delicious creation.
Try it today and enjoy a comforting, cheesy meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious!