Looking for a dish that will surprise and delight your relatives? These Beef and Mozzarella Pockets with Tomato Sauce and Rice are the perfect solution. With a savory filling of seasoned ground beef and gooey mozzarella cheese, all wrapped up and baked to perfection, this recipe is both quick and easy to prepare. Serve with a side of tomato sauce and rice for a complete, delicious meal that will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
For the Beef and Mozzarella Pockets:
• 350g ground beef
• 1 large egg
• 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
• 30g grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves of garlic, finely minced
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• Pre-made dough (such as pizza dough or puff pastry)
For the Tomato Sauce:
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Rice:
• 1 cup rice
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
o In a large mixing bowl, blend together the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. - Form the Pockets:
o Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
o Roll out the pre-made dough on a floured surface and cut into squares or circles, depending on your preference.
o Place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto each piece of dough, add a cube of mozzarella cheese on top, and fold the dough over to form a pocket. Press the edges together to seal. - Bake the Pockets:
o Arrange the pockets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough turns golden brown and the beef is fully cooked. - Make the Tomato Sauce:
o As the pockets bake, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and aromatic.
o Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. - Cook the Rice:
o In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Incorporate the rice and a dash of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. - Serve:
o Serve the beef and mozzarella pockets warm, with a side of tomato sauce and a portion of rice. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.
Conclusion
This Beef and Mozzarella Pockets with Tomato Sauce and Rice recipe is a delightful way to surprise your relatives with a quick, easy, and delicious meal. The combination of savory beef, melty mozzarella, and a rich tomato sauce is sure to please everyone’s taste buds. Serve it with a side of fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying dinner. Enjoy the compliments from your loved ones as they savor this tasty dish!