Puff pastry pudding with mashed potatoes and cheese

Puff Pastry Pudding with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese

Surprising your family with a delicious and interesting recipe that combines the crispy texture of puff pastry with the creaminess of mashed potatoes and the aroma of cheese can be a true delight. This puff pastry pudding with mashed potatoes and cheese is not only a fantastic choice for a comforting dinner but also an ingenious way to recycle leftover mashed potatoes. With a total preparation time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, this recipe yields 6 delicious servings.

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

For the mashed potatoes:
- 500 g potatoes
- 2 cubes of processed cheese
- 1 cup of milk (approximately 200 ml)
- 50 g butter
- Salt, to taste

For the cheese filling:
- 250 g grated telemea cheese
- 250 g sweet cheese
- 1 handful of fresh dill, finely chopped

For the pudding:
- 1/2 package of Bella puff pastry (approximately 250 g)

Preparation

1. Preparing the mashed potatoes:
Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into even cubes for uniform cooking. Place them in a pot with cold water and add salt. Bring the water to a boil and let them cook for 15-20 minutes or until soft. Check them with a fork; if they pierce easily, they are ready.

2. Mashing the potatoes:
After they are cooked, drain the water well and mash the potatoes with a masher or mixer. Add the butter and processed cheese cubes, mixing until completely melted. To achieve a creamier mashed potato, gradually add warm milk, adjusting the consistency to your preference. Taste and add salt if necessary.

3. Preparing the cheese filling:
In a bowl, mix the grated telemea cheese with the sweet cheese and chopped dill. This mixture will add incredible flavor to your pudding.

4. Assembling the pudding:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a tart pan, spread half of the puff pastry, ensuring that you cover the edges well. Use a fork to prick the pastry in several places so that steam can escape during baking.

5. Adding the layers:
Add the first half of the mashed potatoes, spreading it evenly over the pastry. Then, add the cheese filling, spreading it evenly. Cover with the remaining mashed potatoes and finally, place the other half of the puff pastry on top, pricking it again with a fork to allow steam to escape.

6. Baking:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crispy. At this point, the aroma will fill the entire house and make your mouth water.

7. Serving:
Once the pudding is baked, let it cool slightly before cutting. Serve the pudding warm, alongside a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Useful tips

- Filling variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as ricotta or goat cheese, to offer a different taste. Additionally, adding diced ham or sautéed vegetables can turn this recipe into a more substantial meal.
- Puff pastry: If using frozen puff pastry, make sure to completely thaw it before use. It should be soft and easy to handle.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of this pudding contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used. It is a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, and the cheese adds an essential calcium boost for bone health.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes? Yes, it’s a quick option, but make sure it’s of good quality for a pleasant taste.
- How can I tell if the pudding is well-baked? The golden color of the pastry is a good indicator. You can also check the consistency of the pastry and filling with a gentle press of your finger.
- Can the pudding be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the pudding before baking it. When you want to consume it, let it thaw completely and then bake it according to the instructions.

Serving suggestions and pairings

This puff pastry pudding with mashed potatoes and cheese pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables. Additionally, a yogurt or tzatziki sauce can add a refreshing note. If you desire a drink to complement the meal, a dry white wine or fresh lemonade will do wonders.

Experimenting with this recipe can lead to discovering new and interesting flavors. Whether you decide to prepare it for a family dinner or a special occasion, the puff pastry pudding with mashed potatoes and cheese will surely be a guaranteed success. Bon appétit!