Cheese & Asparagus Puff Pastry Parcels

Crispy, golden puff pastry wrapped around tender asparagus, creamy cheese, and a hint of garlic… can you already smell it baking in the oven? These Cheese & Asparagus Puff Pastry Parcels are one of those recipes that feel fancy enough for guests, but secretly couldn’t be simpler. They’re buttery, cheesy, and packed with flavor, yet take just minutes to prepare.

I love making these for brunches, spring gatherings, or even as a quick dinner with a side salad. They’re elegant, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. Trust me—you’re going to want to tuck this one into your regular rotation.

Recipe Origin

This recipe is inspired by French-style pastries, where puff pastry is often used as a canvas for both sweet and savory fillings. The asparagus-cheese combo is a springtime classic, but the addition of garlic and herb cream cheese makes it extra indulgent without adding extra work. Think of it as an easy, modern twist on a French bakery favorite.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Baking tray lined with parchment paper
• Small bowl and brush (for egg or milk wash)
• Knife for trimming asparagus and cutting pastry
• Spoon or spatula for spreading the cheese mixture

Why You’ll Love Cheese & Asparagus Puff Pastry Parcels

Versatile

Serve them as an appetizer, side, or even the star of a light meal. They fit right in whether it’s brunch, dinner, or a picnic spread.

Budget-Friendly

Made with just five ingredients you can easily find at the store. No fuss, no expensive specialty items.

Quick and Easy

Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect when you need something impressive without the stress.

Customizable

Switch up the cheeses, add prosciutto, or sprinkle with sesame seeds for different flavor twists.

Crowd-Pleasing

Even picky eaters fall in love with these parcels. The flaky pastry and gooey cheese combo is always a winner.

Ingredients in Cheese & Asparagus Puff Pastry Parcels

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Asparagus

Fresh, crisp, and slightly earthy—these spears become beautifully tender when baked inside the pastry.

Garlic and Herb Cream Cheese

This spread adds tang, flavor, and creaminess, making the parcels taste like they came from a deli.

Cheddar Cheese

For that rich, melty goodness and sharp flavor that balances the mild asparagus.

Puff Pastry Sheet

The buttery, flaky wrapper that ties everything together. Store-bought puff pastry makes this dish practically effortless.

Egg (or Milk) Wash

Brushed over the pastry for that irresistible golden shine.

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Prepare the Pastry

Unroll your puff pastry sheet and cut it into even squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.

Layer the Flavors

Spread a spoonful of garlic and herb cream cheese onto each piece of pastry. Sprinkle over some cheddar cheese. Place a few asparagus spears on top.

Fold and Seal

Fold the pastry over the asparagus and cheese, sealing the edges lightly. You can either fold diagonally to make triangles or fold the sides in to create little parcels.

Add the Wash

Brush the tops with beaten egg or milk to help the pastry turn beautifully golden and crisp.

Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm, straight from the oven. These are delicious on their own or with a crisp salad on the side.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4 parcels
• Calories per serving: ~330 (varies by pastry and cheese used)
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Cheese & Asparagus Puff Pastry Parcels

• With a Fresh Salad: Pair with arugula or mixed greens for a light, refreshing meal.
• As a Party Appetizer: Cut into smaller portions and serve on a platter.
• With Soup: Perfect alongside creamy tomato or potato-leek soup.
• As a Breakfast or Brunch Dish: Serve with eggs and fresh fruit for a complete spread.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: Assemble parcels up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to re-crisp the pastry.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked parcels, then bake straight from frozen (adding 5 minutes to the baking time).

Variations to Try

• Prosciutto Twist: Add a slice of prosciutto under the asparagus for a salty, savory bite.
• Cheese Swap: Try gruyère, mozzarella, or feta for different flavors.
• Seed Topping: Sprinkle sesame, poppy, or nigella seeds on top before baking.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese, vegan cheddar, and brush with plant milk instead of egg.

Additional Tips

• Trim asparagus so they fit neatly inside the pastry.
• Don’t overstuff—the pastry needs room to puff up.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle with cracked black pepper before baking.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use phyllo pastry instead of puff pastry?
A1: Yes, but the texture will be flakier and more delicate. Brush layers with butter or oil before assembling.

Q2: Do I need to cook the asparagus before baking?
A2: Nope! The oven will cook them perfectly while keeping a little crunch.

Q3: Can I make these gluten-free?
A3: Absolutely—just use gluten-free puff pastry.

Q4: What’s the best way to reheat them?
A4: Pop them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp back up. Avoid the microwave if possible.

Q5: Can I serve them cold?
A5: They’re best warm, but they can be enjoyed cold as part of a picnic spread.

Q6: Can I use other vegetables?
A6: Yes! Try roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for variety.

Q7: How do I keep the pastry from going soggy?
A7: Avoid overfilling and bake until fully golden—this prevents soggy bottoms.

Q8: Can I make them mini-sized for parties?
A8: Definitely! Just cut the pastry smaller and reduce baking time slightly.

Q9: Can I freeze baked parcels?
A9: Yes, but they’re best frozen unbaked and then baked fresh.

Q10: Do I need to thaw puff pastry before using?
A10: Yes, thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temp for about 30 minutes before rolling out.

Conclusion

Cheese & Asparagus Puff Pastry Parcels are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most impressive. With just five ingredients, you get a dish that looks elegant, tastes incredible, and works for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting brunch, needing a quick appetizer, or just craving something cheesy and flaky, these little golden parcels will hit the spot every single time.

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