Cheesy Stuffed Beef Buns (Baked Meat & Cheese Rolls)

Description

Soft, golden-brown baked buns filled with savory seasoned ground beef and a gooey melted cheese center. Crispy on the outside, juicy and creamy on the inside—perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish.

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Ingredients (Makes 10–12 buns)

Dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

• 1 cup warm milk (about 40–45°C / 105–110°F)

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 1 large egg

Beef Filling

• 300 g (10 oz) ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning

• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richness)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Cheese Filling

• 150–200 g mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
  (or mozzarella + cheddar mix)

Topping

• 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (egg wash)

• Chopped parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Add egg, melted butter, and salt. Mix well.

3. Gradually add flour and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size.

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Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic.

3. Add ground beef and cook until browned.

4. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and tomato paste.

5. Cook until moisture evaporates. Let cool completely.

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Step 3: Shape the Buns

1. Punch down the dough and divide into equal portions.

2. Flatten each piece into a small circle.

3. Place 1 tbsp beef filling in the center, add a cube of cheese on top.

4. Wrap dough tightly around filling, sealing well.

5. Place seam-side down on a lined baking tray.

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Step 4: Proof & Bake

1. Cover and let buns rest for 20 minutes.

2. Brush tops with egg wash.

3. Bake at 180°C / 350°F for 20–25 minutes, until deep golden brown.

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Step 5: Finish

• Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.

• Let cool slightly before serving so cheese sets but stays gooey.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with marinara sauce, garlic butter, or chili sauce.

• Great for parties, lunch boxes, or as a comforting dinner side.

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Storage Tips

• Refrigerate up to 3 days.

• Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture.

• Freeze baked buns up to 1 month.