This Cheesy Potato and Ham Puff Pastry Bake is a simple yet indulgent dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese, all encased in golden, flaky puff pastry. Perfect for a quick dinner, appetizer, or snack, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- Potatoes: 350 g (12 oz), peeled
- Soft Cheese (Stracchino, Cream Cheese, or Ricotta): 150 g (5 oz)
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 30 g (1 oz) + extra for topping
- Ham: 4 slices
- Puff Pastry Sheet: 1 sheet
- Breadcrumbs: For topping
- Pepper: To taste
- Oregano: To taste
- Salt: To taste
- Olive Oil: For drizzling
Directions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and boil the potatoes in salted water until soft, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and mash until smooth.
- Mix the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the soft cheese and grated parmesan.
- Season with pepper, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Spread the potato mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Lay the slices of ham on top of the potato mixture.
- Top and Bake:
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs and extra grated parmesan over the top.
- Drizzle with a little olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake for 25 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Let the bake cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a comforting bowl of soup.
- Cut into small squares for an appetizer at a party or gathering.
- Serve with a dipping sauce like marinara, sour cream, or garlic aioli.
- Enjoy as a hearty snack with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or nutmeg to the potato mixture.
- Brush the edges of the puff pastry with an egg wash for a shiny golden finish.
- Use smoked ham or turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Add sautéed onions or spinach to the filling for a veggie-packed variation.
- If the puff pastry edges brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil while baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes: A great source of potassium and vitamin C.
- Cheese: Provides protein and calcium for bone health.
- Ham: Adds protein and savory flavor.
- Olive Oil: Includes healthy fats for heart health.
Dietary Information:
- Contains gluten, dairy, and meat.
- Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free puff pastry.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 1 g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Not recommended for freezing as puff pastry may lose its texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple ingredients and quick preparation make it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The creamy, cheesy filling pairs beautifully with the flaky puff pastry.
- Versatile enough for meals, snacks, or appetizers.
- Customizable with your favorite meats, cheeses, or vegetables.
- A comforting dish that everyone will enjoy!
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Potato and Ham Puff Pastry Bake is a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether served as a light meal or party appetizer, its rich flavors and crispy pastry make it irresistibly good. Try it today and savor the cheesy, savory delight!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different cheese? Yes, cream cheese, ricotta, or even mozzarella can work.
- What if I don’t have puff pastry? Substitute with pie crust or phyllo dough.
- Can I make this vegetarian? Replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- How do I keep the pastry crisp? Reheat in the oven instead of the microwave to retain crispiness.
- Can I freeze this bake? It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it before baking for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen.
- What if I don’t have breadcrumbs? Use crushed crackers, panko, or omit them altogether.
- Can I make this ahead? Assemble the bake and refrigerate for up to 1 day before baking.
- How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy? Avoid overfilling and drain any excess moisture from the potatoes.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, but the flavor will be sweeter and richer.
- What can I serve with this? Salad, soup, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.