Mushroom Puff Pastry Parcels Recipe!

Mushroom Puff Pastry Parcels—a perfect appetizer or light snack with a rich, savory filling wrapped in flaky puff pastry.

Mushroom Puff Pastry Parcels Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (store-bought or homemade)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, chopped (use any variety like cremini, button, or shiitake)

• 1/4 cup cream cheese (or ricotta for a lighter option)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• 1 tablespoon butter (for cooking mushrooms)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Mushroom Filling

1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat.

2. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the mushrooms to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they release their moisture and become tender.

4. Stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese, and cook for another 2 minutes until the mixture is creamy and well-combined.

5. Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and remove from heat. Let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into 4 squares or rectangles, depending on the size of the parcels you want to make.

Step 3: Assemble the Parcels

1. Spoon a generous amount of the mushroom filling onto the center of each puff pastry square.

2. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle. Pinch the edges tightly to seal the parcels. You can use a fork to press the edges for a decorative finish and to ensure they stay sealed.

3. Brush the tops of the parcels with the beaten egg to give them a golden, shiny finish when baked.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place the mushroom-filled parcels onto the prepared baking sheet.

2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and puffed up.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let the parcels cool for a few minutes.

2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm as a delicious appetizer or snack.

Tips for Success:

• Mushroom Variety: Feel free to mix different kinds of mushrooms for added texture and flavor, like shiitake, oyster, or portobello.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the mushroom filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Assemble the parcels just before baking.

• Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use vegan cream cheese and skip the egg wash or replace it with a plant-based egg wash (like almond milk).

• Cheese Variation: If you don’t have Parmesan, you can substitute it with Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Why This Recipe Works:

The flaky puff pastry creates a delightful contrast to the creamy mushroom filling, making each bite a comforting and savory treat. The garlic, onion, and herbs enhance the rich flavor of the mushrooms, while the cheese adds creaminess and depth. These parcels are quick to make and perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party, serving as an appetizer, or enjoying as a snack.

Q&A:

Q: Can I use other types of cheese for the filling?
A: Yes! You can experiment with cheeses like goat cheese, ricotta, or Gruyère for a different flavor. Just ensure the cheese is soft and melts well to blend with the mushrooms.

Q: Can I freeze these mushroom parcels?
A: Yes! You can assemble the parcels and freeze them before baking. Simply place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just bake for an extra 5-10 minutes.

Q: Can I make these without mushrooms?
A: Absolutely! You can use other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or even a mix of leeks and cheese. Just make sure to cook the vegetables to remove any excess moisture before adding them to the pastry.

Q: Can I make these parcels ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make these mushroom parcels up to a day ahead. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes them perfect for meal prepping or preparing for a party.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the puff pastry with gluten-free puff pastry. Make sure to check the packaging instructions, as baking times may vary slightly.

Enjoy!