Scotch burgers are a hearty and savory pastry-wrapped beef dish, reminiscent of a meat pie or handheld savory turnover. Combining seasoned ground beef with aromatic celery, onion, herbs, and a touch of creamy yogurt or sour cream, the filling is sealed in golden puff pastry. The name and technique suggest a Scottish influence, with a comforting, homespun flavor perfect for gatherings or special dinners. These golden parcels are ideal for both casual family meals and more festive occasions where a warm, flaky meat-filled treat is welcome.
Ingredients
- 17¼ oz puff pastry sheets (frozen, 1 package)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- ½ cup celery (chopped )
- 2 tbsp onion (finely minced )
- ¼ tbsp parsley (chopped )
- ¼ tsp dried sage
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup cornbread stuffing
- ¼ cup plain yogurt ( or sour cream)
- 1 egg (beaten (for brushing pastry))
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Pastry
- Thaw puff pastry sheets for 20 minutes.
- Unfold sheets and cut each into 4 squares.
Step 2: Make Filling
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, celery, onion, parsley, sage, pepper, bread stuffing, and yogurt or sour cream.
- Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.
Step 3: Form Patties
- Divide meat mixture into 8 equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a patty.
- Brown patties in a skillet, about 3–4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels and cool slightly.
Step 4: Assemble Scotchburgers
- On a floured surface, roll out each pastry square to be about 1½ inch larger than the patties.
- Place one meat patty in the center of each square.
- Fold pastry over the meat and seal edges, pinching tightly or crimping with a fork.
Step 5: Bake
- Place seam side down on a baking sheet.
- Brush tops with beaten egg.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease during frying
- Substitute sour cream entirely if yogurt isn’t available (as noted on card)
- Chill patties briefly before frying to help them hold shape
- Seal pastry edges tightly to prevent leaks while baking
- Brush pastry generously with egg wash for deeper browning
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or thyme for a more traditional Scotch flavor
- Serve with mustard or gravy for a classic presentation
- These freeze well before baking for make-ahead meals
Nutrition
Calories: 544kcalCarbohydrates: 51gProtein: 21gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 57mgSodium: 633mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 78IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 56mgIron: 4mg
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