Growing up, my family had a few signature holiday dishes that were always the talk of the table. One of my personal favorites was my grandma’s famous Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs. Every Christmas Eve, the aroma of the slow-roasted pork and flaky pastry would fill the house, drawing us all into the kitchen in anticipation. I can still remember the way my grandma’s face would light up as she carefully assembled each perfectly golden puff, meticulously arranging them on a platter.
It was a labor of love, and to this day, those Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs hold a special place in my heart. The combination of the tender, savory pulled pork and the buttery, crisp pastry was simply divine. And the best part? They were so easy to make!
Table of Contents
Why This Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs
Years later, I’ve perfected my grandma’s recipe, and I’m excited to share it with you. This Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, yielding 12 delectable servings that are sure to disappear in no time. The secret lies in the slow-cooked, flavorful pulled pork and the buttery, flaky pastry that perfectly complements it. It’s a match made in heaven, and once you try it, you’ll be hooked.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup shredded pulled pork
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
That’s it! With these straightforward components, you can create a showstopping appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress your guests.
Step-by-Step Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs Instructions
Preparing Your Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs
This recipe takes 20 minutes total – 5 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. All you’ll need is a baking sheet and a few basic kitchen tools. Let’s get started!
1- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2- In a medium bowl, gently mix the 2 cups of pulled pork with the 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper until well combined.
3- Unfold the 1 sheet of puff pastry and cut it into 12 equal squares.
4- Place a heaping tablespoon of the seasoned pulled pork onto the center of each pastry square. Fold the pastry over to create a half-moon shape, and use a fork to crimp and seal the edges.
5- In a small bowl, whisk the 1 egg. Brush the tops of the Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs with the egg wash.
6- Bake the puffs for 15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs turn out perfectly, here are a few pro tips:
- Make sure to use high-quality, tender pulled pork. The flavor will really shine through.
- Be gentle when handling the puff pastry to avoid tearing or overworking the dough.
- Adjust the amount of filling to your preference – some people like more pork, while others prefer a higher pastry-to-pork ratio.
- Keep an eye on the puffs in the oven, as puff pastry can brown quickly.
Serving and Storing Your Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs
Perfect Pairings for Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs
These Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs are the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. Serve them up at your next game day gathering, holiday party, or family gathering. They pair beautifully with a crisp salad, tangy coleslaw, or a selection of dipping sauces. And don’t forget the beverages – a cold beer or a refreshing glass of wine is the perfect accompaniment to these savory puffs.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you have any leftover Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs (which is highly unlikely!), they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the puffs up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the puffs, but don’t bake them. Instead, cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, simply brush with the egg wash and bake as directed.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs
Creative Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs Variations
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s so versatile. You can easily customize the flavors to suit your tastes. Try adding a touch of barbecue sauce or some spicy chipotle seasoning to the pulled pork. Or, experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or even a dollop of tangy mustard.
Making Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs Diet-Friendly
For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe to fit your needs. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free puff pastry. And for a vegan option, swap the pulled pork for a plant-based meat alternative and use a dairy-free egg wash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought pulled pork for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought pulled pork works great in this recipe. Just be sure to season it with salt and pepper to your liking.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 12 servings, with each serving being 1 pastry puff.
Q: Can I make the Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the puffs up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble them, but don’t bake. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake and serve.
Q: What should I do if the pastry doesn’t puff up?
A: Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature and that you’re using a high-quality puff pastry. If the pastry still doesn’t puff, try cutting the squares a bit larger to allow for more expansion.
Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Buttery, flaky pastry puffs filled with tender, juicy pulled pork – the ultimate easy appetizer or game day snack!
Ingredients
– 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup shredded pulled pork
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 2. Unfold the puff pastry sheet and cut into 12 equal squares.
3. 3. Place 1-2 tablespoons of pulled pork in the center of each pastry square.
4. 4. Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle shape and press the edges to seal.
5. 5. Place the pastry puffs on a baking sheet and brush the tops with melted butter.
6. 6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown.
7. 7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
8. 8. Serve warm with your favorite barbecue sauce for dipping.
Notes
For best results, use high-quality, well-seasoned pulled pork. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as shredded chicken or cheese.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Bites & Finger Foods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
These Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack. With their irresistible combination of tender pulled pork and flaky, buttery pastry, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Give this recipe a try, and let me know what you think in the comments below. Enjoy!
