Puff Pastry Strudel with Pepperoni and Cheese in 15 Minutes: The Ultimate Savory Snack

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Lay a sheet of parchment paper on a baking sheet. Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet and place it on the prepared sheet. If the sheet is too large, you can trim it down to a smaller size—just make sure it’s large enough to roll around the filling.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

First, arrange the pepperoni slices in a single layer on the puff pastry, leaving a border around the edges. Overlap them slightly if necessary. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the pepperoni. If you’re using Italian seasoning, sprinkle it over the cheese for an added boost of flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Roll the Strudel

Carefully fold one edge of the puff pastry over the filling, then roll it up tightly to form a strudel shape. Pinch the edges to seal the pastry so the filling doesn’t escape while baking.

Step 5: Brush with Olive Oil

Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the outside of the puff pastry with olive oil. This will help the pastry become beautifully golden brown and crispy during baking.

Step 6: Bake

Place the rolled strudel into the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on it during the final minutes to ensure it doesn’t burn.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once baked, remove the strudel from the oven and allow it to cool for a minute or two. Slice it into 4-6 pieces, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy!

Recipe Variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace pepperoni with sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a veggie-packed option.
• Cheese Lovers: Add more cheese options like cheddar, gouda, or provolone for a richer flavor.
• Spicy: Spice it up with hot pepperoni or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes! Store-bought puff pastry works wonderfully for this recipe and saves time. Just make sure it’s thawed before using.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the strudel and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or foil, then bake as directed when you’re ready to eat.

3. Can I freeze the strudel?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked strudel for up to 1-2 months. To bake from frozen, just increase the cooking time by a few minutes until it’s golden brown.

4. What dipping sauces go well with this strudel?
Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter sauce are great dipping options to complement the savory flavors.

5. Can I make the filling spicier?
Absolutely! You can add jalapeños, spicy sausage, or even a drizzle of hot sauce inside for some extra heat.

Notes:

• If you’re not a fan of pepperoni, try using salami, prosciutto, or even thinly sliced chicken or turkey.
• Be sure to watch the strudel closely toward the end of baking to avoid overcooking.
• For a crispier bottom, place a cooling rack on the baking sheet to elevate the strudel while it bakes.

Nutritional Info (per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 12g

Conclusion:

This Puff Pastry Strudel with Pepperoni and Cheese in 15 Minutes is the perfect combination of crispy, flaky pastry and savory, gooey cheese. It’s an incredibly simple yet indulgent treat that comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy days when you want something tasty and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as a snack or as part of a meal, this strudel will surely be a hit at your table. With the option to customize the filling to suit your tastes, you can make this dish your own and enjoy it again and again!