When it comes to comfort food that doubles as an impressive centerpiece, nothing beats a golden puff pastry roll. This Ham, Cheese, and Minced Meat Puff Pastry Roll is the perfect combination of savory flavors, creamy textures, and flaky pastry layers that practically melt in your mouth. Imagine biting into a warm roll filled with smoky ham, rich minced meat, gooey melted cheese, and a tangy sauce made from mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard. All of this is wrapped in buttery puff pastry that bakes to a golden perfection, making it crisp on the outside yet soft and flavorful inside. It’s the type of recipe you can prepare for any occasion—whether you’re planning a holiday spread, a family dinner, or simply want to treat yourself to something delicious on a quiet evening at home.
This recipe is not only mouthwatering but also surprisingly easy to prepare. The use of puff pastry means you don’t have to make dough from scratch, saving you time without compromising on taste or texture. Each layer of ingredients adds its own unique personality: ham gives a salty and smoky kick, cheese adds creaminess, and minced meat adds heartiness, making this dish a complete and satisfying meal all in one roll. It is versatile, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
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200 g ham, sliced
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100 g mayonnaise
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100 g ketchup
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30 g mustard
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
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400 g puff pastry
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70 g ketchup (for filling layer)
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20 g oregano
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100 g cheese, grated
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50 g mustard (for pastry layer)
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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200 g cooked minced meat (optional but adds richness)
Cooking Directions
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
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Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle large enough to hold the filling.
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In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, 100 g of ketchup, and 30 g of mustard. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
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Spread this sauce evenly over the rolled puff pastry, leaving about 1 cm of border around the edges.
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Layer the ham slices evenly across the pastry, followed by a thin spread of the remaining 70 g ketchup.
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Sprinkle the oregano over the ketchup layer for a fragrant herbal note.
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Evenly distribute the grated cheese over the ham and ketchup.
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Add the cooked minced meat, spreading it across the filling to add hearty richness.
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Spread 50 g mustard over the top for an extra tangy bite that balances the richness.
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Starting from one long side, roll the puff pastry into a log shape, tucking it tightly as you go to keep the filling intact.
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Seal the edges carefully by pinching them together. Place the roll seam-side down on the prepared tray.
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Brush the entire roll with the beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy finish after baking.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden, and crisp.
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Allow the roll to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing into thick rounds. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrients (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 320
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Protein: 13 g
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Carbohydrates: 23 g
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Fat: 19 g
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Sodium: 710 mg
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Calcium: 8% DV
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Iron: 12% DV
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it delivers comfort and elegance in one dish. It looks like something you’d buy from a bakery, yet it’s simple enough to make at home without complicated techniques. The flavor combination is irresistible—the smoky ham, gooey cheese, and tangy sauces make every bite satisfying. It’s also a versatile recipe you can prepare for brunch, lunch, or dinner. And let’s not forget that this roll slices beautifully, making it a fantastic dish to share at potlucks, parties, or family dinners.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
This recipe is inspired by European-style stuffed pastries, which have long been a part of celebratory meals. From French pâtés en croûte to Italian stromboli, cultures worldwide have embraced the idea of wrapping savory fillings in flaky dough. The addition of ham and cheese is a nod to classic flavor pairings, while the use of mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard reflects a more modern twist. This recipe merges old-world charm with contemporary flavors, making it both nostalgic and exciting.
Ingredient Spotlight
The puff pastry is the true star here, providing the flaky, buttery layers that make this dish special. Ham brings smoky saltiness that cuts through the richness, while cheese adds creaminess that binds everything together. Minced meat makes the roll more substantial, transforming it from a simple snack into a full meal. Mustard adds sharpness that balances the flavors, while oregano infuses a herby aroma. Every ingredient plays its role perfectly, ensuring balance in each slice.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to re-crisp the pastry. Avoid microwaving as it can make the puff pastry soggy. This dish can also be prepared in advance and baked just before serving, making it a convenient option for entertaining.
Common Variations to Try
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can swap ham for turkey, salami, or roast beef depending on what you have on hand. Different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or cheddar all work wonderfully. For a veggie-friendly version, skip the meat and use roasted mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. You can even add a bit of heat with spicy mustard or chili flakes for an extra kick.
Pairing Recommendations
This roll pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, which balances out the richness of the pastry. It also goes well with roasted vegetables, tomato soup, or even a light pasta salad. For drinks, pair it with a chilled glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, or keep it casual with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with lemon.
Health Benefits
While indulgent, this recipe does provide valuable nutrients. The ham and cheese contribute protein and calcium, while puff pastry supplies energy through carbohydrates and fats. Oregano provides antioxidants, and mustard aids digestion. Pairing the roll with vegetables or salad helps create a more balanced meal. Moderation is key, but this dish can definitely fit into a varied diet.
Conclusion
The Ham, Cheese, and Minced Meat Puff Pastry Roll is the perfect combination of simplicity, elegance, and flavor. With its golden crust, gooey cheese, smoky ham, and hearty minced meat, it’s a recipe that delivers both comfort and satisfaction. It’s versatile enough to be served at a casual family dinner or a festive holiday spread, and it always leaves an impression.
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What makes this dish truly special is its adaptability—you can customize the filling based on what you love most or what’s in your fridge. Plus, it’s a recipe that requires little effort but gives maximum reward. The flaky pastry, combined with the savory filling, ensures that each bite feels indulgent and satisfying.
So, whether you’re looking for a centerpiece to impress guests, a fun dish to bring to a potluck, or simply a hearty snack for a cozy evening, this puff pastry roll is the answer. It proves that with a few simple ingredients, you can create something extraordinary that everyone will remember. This recipe deserves a place in your collection because it’s not only delicious but also versatile, reliable, and always a crowd favorite.