Mini Cheese and Onion Turnovers

Mini Cheese and Onion Turnovers are golden, flaky pastries filled with a savory mixture of cheese and caramelized onions. These bite-sized delights are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as party appetizers. The buttery pastry perfectly complements the rich, slightly sweet onion filling and the sharp, creamy cheese.

Easy to make yet impressive in presentation, these turnovers are a crowd-pleaser. Quick to prepare with simple ingredients, they offer a perfect balance of savory and indulgent flavors that make them irresistible.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, satisfying, and versatile. The combination of caramelized onions and melted cheese inside flaky pastry creates a perfect bite every time. They are portable, easy to share, and can be made ahead of time.

Whether served hot or at room temperature, these turnovers are always a hit, making them perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a cozy snack at home.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Mini Cheese and Onion Turnovers are a must-try because they combine simplicity with flavor. They are easy to customize with different cheeses, herbs, or even vegetables.

The flaky pastry pairs perfectly with the creamy, savory filling, offering a gourmet feel with minimal effort. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or party platters, these turnovers are a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 40–45 minutes
• Servings: 12 mini turnovers
• Calories: ~180 kcal per turnover

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: European / British-inspired
• Course: Appetizer / Snack / Breakfast

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Filling:

• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Sauté onions with butter, salt, pepper, and thyme until soft and golden.
3. Roll out puff pastry and cut into squares.
4. Place a spoonful of onion and cheese mixture onto each square.
5. Fold into triangles, seal edges, brush with egg wash.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and puffed.
7. Cool slightly before serving.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

• Heat butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add chopped onions, salt, pepper, and thyme.
• Sauté for 8–10 minutes until onions are soft, translucent, and slightly caramelized.
• Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
• Stir in shredded cheese.

Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pastry

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
• Cut pastry into 12 squares (or more depending on size preference).

Step 3: Assemble the Turnovers

• Place a spoonful of the onion and cheese mixture in the center of each square.
• Fold the pastry diagonally to form a triangle.
• Press edges with a fork to seal tightly.

Step 4: Apply Egg Wash

• Brush the tops of each turnover with beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.

Step 5: Bake

• Place turnovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake in preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
• Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or light breakfast.
• Pair with a simple salad, tomato chutney, or a dipping sauce for extra flavor.
• Perfect for tea time, parties, or as a finger food for gatherings.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Do not overfill the pastry — this prevents leakage during baking.
• Chill the puff pastry slightly before cutting to prevent sticking.
• Brush edges lightly with egg wash to ensure a tight seal.
• Serve freshly baked for the best flakiness; they can be reheated in the oven.

Variations

• Cheese and Spinach: Add cooked, chopped spinach to the filling.
• Mushroom and Cheese: Mix sautéed mushrooms with cheese instead of onions.
• Spicy: Add chili flakes or chopped jalapeños to the onion mixture.
• Herby: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to enhance flavor.
• Vegan: Use vegan puff pastry and substitute cheese with vegan cheese.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerate: Store cooked turnovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freeze: Assemble unbaked turnovers, place on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven for 5–10 minutes for crispiness.

Special Equipment Needed

• Skillet for sautéing onions
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Knife and cutting board
• Fork for sealing edges
• Pastry brush

FAQ

Q1: Can I use pre-chopped onions?
Yes, but sauté them until soft and slightly caramelized for best flavor.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes — you can prepare and freeze unbaked turnovers and bake them when needed.

Q3: Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely — cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or a blend works well.

Q4: Can these be made bite-sized for parties?
Yes — cut smaller squares and reduce filling slightly for mini appetizers.

Q5: Can I add meat?
Yes — cooked bacon, ham, or sausage can be added to the filling for a heartier option.

Conclusion

Mini Cheese and Onion Turnovers are a delightful, versatile snack or breakfast item that combines buttery, flaky pastry with savory cheese and caramelized onions.

Easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, these turnovers impress both in flavor and presentation. Serve warm, enjoy the melty cheese and sweet onions, and watch them disappear in no time!