Meta Description
Discover how to make golden, restaurant-quality baked savory crepes stuffed with seasoned ground beef, rich melted cheese, and a creamy finish.
Introduction
Bring a touch of comfort and elegance to your table with these Baked Savory Crepes Stuffed with Ground Beef and Melted Cheese. Thin, golden crepes are filled with a savory minced meat mixture, rolled tightly, drenched in a creamy sauce or blanketed with cheese, and baked until bubbling, golden, and irresistible. Perfect for a cozy weekend family dinner or a special gathering!
Ingredients
For the Crepes:
- All-purpose flour: 1.5 cups
- Milk: 1.5 to 2 cups
- Eggs: 2 to 3 large eggs
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (melted, plus extra for greasing the pan)
For the Ground Beef Filling:
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450g)
- Yellow onion: 1 large (finely chopped)
- Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
- Tomato sauce or paste: 1/2 cup tomato sauce or 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Oil or butter: 1 tablespoon (for cooking)
- Dried basil or Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
For Assembly & Baking:
- Cheese: 1.5 to 2 cups grated melting cheese (such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère)
- Fresh parsley: Chopped (for garnish)
Instructions (Step by Step)
Step 1: Make the Crepe Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and salt.
- Gradually sift and whisk in the flour until the batter is completely smooth and free of lumps.
- Let the batter rest in the refrigerator for about 20 to 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Crepes
- Heat a non-stick skillet (about 8 to 10 inches) over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the center of the pan, immediately tilting and swirling the pan so the batter covers the bottom in a thin, even layer.
- Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until the edges start to lift and turn lightly golden, then carefully flip and cook for another 30 to 60 seconds.
- Transfer to a plate and repeat until all the batter is used.
Step 3: Prepare the Ground Beef Filling
- Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until completely browned.
- Stir in the tomato sauce (or paste), dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until rich and cohesive, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Lay a crepe flat, place a spoonful of the beef filling down the center, and top with a sprinkle of grated cheese.
- Fold the left and right sides inward over the filling, then roll it tightly like a burrito.
- Place the rolled crepes seam-side down neatly into the prepared baking dish, fitting them closely together.
- Generously top the crepes with the remaining grated cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
Service Suggestions
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top just before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Accompaniments: Serve hot alongside a crisp mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette or a dollop of cool sour cream.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftover baked crepes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
- Freezing: You can freeze assembled, unbaked or baked stuffed crepes for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking.
FAQs
- Can I make the crepes ahead of time? Yes! You can make the crepes a day in advance, stack them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and keep them in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble and bake.
- What kind of cheese works best? Mozzarella provides an amazing stringy texture and melt, while a mix of cheddar or Gruyère adds a deeper, sharper flavor profile.
Conclusion
These baked ground beef and cheese crepes offer an incredible balance of tender crepes, savory spiced meat, and rich, gooey melted cheese. It is a rewarding dish that looks like it came straight out of a bistro kitchen, yet is simple enough to enjoy right at home!