Cheesy Stuffed Rolls with Meat and Nuts 

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What Are Cheesy Stuffed Rolls?

Cheesy stuffed rolls are small portions of soft dough, filled with a savory mixture (usually minced meat or vegetables), baked until fluffy, then topped with a creamy cheese sauce or melted cheese layer. In this version, chopped nuts add texture and depth, making the dish richer and more satisfying.

This recipe combines:

  • Soft homemade dough
  • Flavorful meat filling
  • Creamy melted cheese topping
  • Crunchy nut garnish

The result is a dish that melts in your mouth with every bite.

🧾 Ingredients Overview

Before you start, it’s important to prepare everything in advance. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Dough Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon instant yeast
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
  • 1½ cups warm milk (or warm water)

Filling Ingredients

  • 300–400 g minced beef or chicken
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons oil

Cheese Topping

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or processed cheese
  • ½ cup cooking cream or evaporated milk

Nut Topping (Optional but Recommended)

  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or peanuts
  • 1 tablespoon butter (to lightly toast nuts)

🍞 Preparing the Soft Dough

The dough is the foundation of this recipe. It should be soft, elastic, and easy to shape.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, mix:

  • Warm milk
  • Sugar
  • Yeast

Let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures the yeast is active.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add flour and salt to a large bowl. Pour in the yeast mixture and oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough sticks, add a little flour, but don’t overdo it.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

🍖 Making the Savory Meat Filling

A rich filling gives these rolls their deep flavor.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat oil in a pan. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook briefly.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

Add minced meat to the pan. Break it apart and cook until browned.

Step 3: Season Well

Add salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and oregano. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.

Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly before using.

🧀 Preparing the Cheese Mixture

The cheese topping is what makes this dish truly indulgent.

In a bowl, mix:

  • Mozzarella
  • Cheddar
  • Cooking cream

This mixture will melt beautifully and coat the rolls with a creamy layer.

🟤 Toasting the Nuts

Nuts add crunch and contrast to the soft rolls.

Melt butter in a small pan, add chopped nuts, and toast gently until fragrant. Set aside.

🥟 Shaping the Stuffed Rolls

Step 1: Divide the Dough

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal small balls (about the size of a golf ball).

Step 2: Fill the Dough

Flatten each ball slightly. Add a spoonful of meat filling in the center.

Step 3: Seal and Shape

Close the dough around the filling and roll into a smooth ball. Make sure it’s well sealed to prevent leaks.

🍽 Arranging the Rolls for Baking

Grease a baking dish or pan. Arrange the stuffed rolls close together, seam side down. This helps them stay soft and fluffy.

Cover and let rest for 20 minutes for a second rise.

🔥 Baking the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until lightly golden on top and fully cooked inside.

🧀 Adding the Cheese Topping

Once the rolls are baked:

  1. Remove the dish from the oven
  2. Spread the cheese mixture generously over the rolls
  3. Sprinkle toasted nuts on top

Return to the oven for 10 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and slightly bubbly.

⏱ Resting Before Serving

Allow the rolls to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set slightly and improves texture.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

These cheesy stuffed rolls can be served as:

  • A main dish with salad
  • A party appetizer
  • A family dinner centerpiece

Serve with:

  • Fresh green salad
  • Yogurt or garlic sauce
  • Tomato soup

🧊 Storage and Reheating

Storage

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container
  • Keeps well for 2–3 days

Reheating

  • Reheat in oven at 160°C (320°F)
  • Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying

🌟 Tips for Perfect Results

  • Don’t overfill the dough
  • Use freshly grated cheese for better melting
  • Let the dough rise fully
  • Bake rolls close together for softness

🌍 Variations You Can Try

  • Vegetarian: Replace meat with mushrooms and spinach
  • Spicy: Add chili flakes or hot sauce
  • Moroccan style: Add ras el hanout and parsley
  • Chicken version: Use spiced shredded chicken

❤️ Final Thoughts

These cheesy stuffed rolls with meat and nuts are the ultimate comfort food. Soft, savory, creamy, and slightly crunchy, they bring together everything we love about homemade baking. Whether you serve them for guests or enjoy them with family, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

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