If you want a fun holiday appetizer that looks festive and tastes warm and savory, these Cheddar and Beef Stuffed Christmas Trees are a great choice. The pastry turns golden, the cheese melts into the seasoned beef, and the little tree shapes make any platter feel cheerful. They are simple, eye catching, and easy enough for busy December days. This is one of those Amazing Christmas Appetizers you will want to save for your winter gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
Instructions
1. Cook the beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned, then drain any extra fat.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until soft and fragrant.
3. Stir in salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and tomato paste. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool for 10 minutes.
5. Stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the cooled beef mixture until blended.
6. Preheat the oven to 400 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Roll out the puff pastry and cut tree shapes using a cookie cutter. Make sure you have pairs so each tree has a top and bottom.
8. Spoon a small amount of beef and cheese onto half of the cutouts, leaving a border around the edges.
9. Place the matching tree cutouts on top and press the edges lightly to seal.
10. Brush the tops with egg wash for a shiny golden finish.
11. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden.
12. Let the trees cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving and Tips
These little trees fit nicely with Festive Platter Ideas and pair well with dips like creamy ranch or pepper jelly. They stay crisp on the outside and soft inside, making them great for Potluck Dishes Christmas Party plans because they handle travel well.
For more party inspiration, try adding simple appetizers like this cranberry brie cheese appetizer. If you want something fresh and bright on the table, these shrimp and guacamole appetizers make a nice match. You can also add savory bites such as bacon wrapped little smokies or a smooth dip like pepper jelly cheese dip. These options help build a colorful Appetizer Christmas Tree style platter.
Cheddar and Beef Stuffed Christmas Trees
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned, then drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and tomato paste. Simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Let the mixture cool for 10 minutes, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut tree shapes using a cookie cutter, making sure to have pairs for tops and bottoms.
- Place a small spoonful of beef mixture onto half of the cutouts, leaving a border around the edges.
- Cover with the matching tree cutouts and press edges lightly to seal.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a shiny golden finish.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Let the filling cool before shaping to keep the pastry firm.
- Use a sharp cutter for clean tree edges.
- Don’t overfill. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.
- Chill shaped pastries for 10 minutes before baking if they soften.
Extra Tips
- Let the filling cool fully so the pastry stays firm when shaping.
- Use a sharp cookie cutter for clean, defined tree edges.
- Do not overstuff, a little filling is enough for each tree.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven so the pastry stays crisp and flaky.
FAQs
Why did my pastry lose its shape?
If the dough warms too much, it softens and spreads. Chill the shaped trees for 10 minutes before baking if needed.
Can I prepare these ahead for a Potluck Dishes Christmas Party?
Yes, you can assemble them a day ahead. Keep them chilled and bake right before serving so they stay crisp and golden.
Can I mix ham with the beef?
Yes, ham mixes well with cheddar and gives a mild salty flavor. This creates a blend similar to Ham And Cheese Christmas Trees while keeping the beef for added richness.
Conclusion
These Cheddar and Beef Stuffed Christmas Trees are easy, festive, and perfect for bright holiday tables. They make a charming addition to appetizer boards and simple winter meals. If you enjoy fun holiday snacks, save or share this recipe on Pinterest so others can try it too.