Pastelitos Carne are irresistible Latin meat pastries that I simply cannot get enough of. These delightful savory meat turnovers are filled with a rich and flavorful ground beef mixture, all wrapped in a flaky pastry that bakes to golden perfection. They make for an excellent appetizer or snack, perfect for parties or family gatherings. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious treats!

Why You’ll Love This Pastelitos Carne

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Pastelitos Carne. Firstly, they’re incredibly versatile, allowing for various fillings beyond the traditional ground beef. Secondly, they can be served fresh out of the oven or enjoyed at room temperature, making them ideal for any occasion. As one of the best recipes for meat pastries, they combine the perfect balance of flaky and savory. Plus, they’re a gluten-free option if you use the right puff pastry. Lastly, these delightful beef pastries can be customized to fit any palate, making them a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients for Pastelitos Carne

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 medium Onion
1 medium Carrot
1 stalk Celery Rib
3 cloves Garlic
1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon Cumin
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 pound Lean Ground Beef
1/2 cup White wine
1 cup Tomato Sauce
1/2 cup Pitted Spanish Olives
1 package Frozen Puff Pastry
2 tablespoons Honey

How to Make Pastelitos Carne Step-by-Step

Step 1: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onions, carrots, and celery, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic, mixing it well with the vegetables for another minute.
Step 3: Raise the heat to high, adding the lean ground beef along with salt, cumin, oregano, and black pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the beef is browned.
Step 4: Add the white wine to the skillet, cooking for around 2 minutes until the liquid evaporates.
Step 5: Incorporate the tomato sauce and chopped Spanish olives, stirring well. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
Step 6: Allow the picadillo to cool completely before using it.
Step 7: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Step 8: Lay the frozen puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and gently roll it with a rolling pin.
Step 9: Use a biscuit cutter to create small rounds from the puff pastry.
Step 10: Place a heaping tablespoon of the picadillo filling at the center of half the pastry rounds.
Step 11: Wet the edge of the pastry round with a bit of water, cover with another pastry round, and use a fork to press the edges together.
Step 12: Arrange the pastelitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut a small slit on the top of each.
Step 13: Bake the pastelitos de carne for 10 minutes, then rotate and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
Step 14: Brush the tops lightly with honey while still warm.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pastelitos Carne

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality puff pastry for that flaky texture.
Don’t overfill the pastry rounds to prevent bursting during baking.
Experiment with different fillings like chicken or vegetables for variety.
Always let the picadillo cool before filling the pastries to avoid sogginess.

Best Ways to Serve Pastelitos Carne

These delicious meat-filled pastries can be served in various ways. Pair them with a fresh salad for a complete meal or serve with dipping sauces like chimichurri or salsa. They also make fantastic appetizers at gatherings, ensuring everyone enjoys these delightful savory meat turnovers.

Pastelitos Carne: 12 Irresistible Meat Pastries to Try - Pastelitos Carne - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Pastelitos Carne

To maintain their crispiness, store the baked pastelitos in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be reheated in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F to restore their flaky texture. Meal prep enthusiasts can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the pastries right before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pastelitos Carne

What are pastelitos carne?

Pastelitos carne are Latin meat pastries filled with a savory mixture of ground beef and spices, encased in flaky pastry. They are a popular choice for appetizers and snacks.

Can I make pastelitos carne ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pastries ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, which makes them an excellent choice for easy entertaining.

How do I avoid common mistakes with pastelitos carne?

To avoid soggy pastries, ensure the filling is cool before assembly and don’t overfill them. Follow the baking times closely for the best results.

Variations of Pastelitos Carne You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different fillings and flavors. You can try adding cheese for a creamy texture or use shredded chicken for a lighter option. Vegetarian versions can include a mix of vegetables or beans, making it perfect for all dietary preferences.

For more delicious recipes, check out small batch apple pumpkin muffins or crumbl caramel apple cookies. If you’re interested in meal prep, you might find slow cooker creamy chicken helpful. Additionally, learn more about Mediterranean ground beef stir for a different twist on beef dishes. For a sweet treat, try dark chocolate raspberry cheesecake.