Easy Combination In A Pastry Shell
A delightful and versatile dish featuring a creamy white sauce served inside crisp puff pastry shells. Perfect for appetizers or light meals, it combines rich buttery flavors with a smooth, seasoned sauce that complements the flaky pastry, making it appealing to both casual diners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make the white sauce by melting butter in a large skillet.
- Remove from heat and add flour to make a paste.
- Add milk, return to heat, and stir constantly until thick and smooth.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or onion powder to the white sauce. If you don't have puff pastry shells, you can use phyllo dough or make a simple pie crust with flour and butter. For added texture, fold in some cooked shrimp or crab meat, which pairs beautifully with American recipes like Shrimp-Corn Chowder Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pastry shells as a delightful appetizer or main dish accompanied by a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. They also pair wonderfully with sides like garlic bread or a light soup, making them a versatile option for any meal. Consider serving alongside Vidalia Onion Seafood Casserole for a delicious seafood-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth texture. If reheating the pastry shells, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Combination In A Pastry Shell contains roughly 271 calories, with 20g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 751mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the white sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the white sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little extra milk if it thickens too much. This makes it convenient for quick assembly when you're ready to serve the pastry shells.
What can I add to the filling for more flavor?
You can enhance the filling by adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or incorporate cooked seafood like shrimp or crab. Spices such as cayenne pepper or Old Bay seasoning can also elevate the flavor profile, complementing the dish beautifully with seafood recipes.
Can I freeze the pastry shells after baking?
Yes, you can freeze baked pastry shells. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for a crispy texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).