This Cheesy Potato Puff Pastry Bake is a delicious and simple dish that combines creamy potatoes, fresh cheese, and ham, all wrapped in a flaky puff pastry. Perfect for any meal, it’s sure to please the whole family with its crispy outside and soft, cheesy inside. Great for parties, appetizers, or a cozy family dinner.
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Ingredients:
- 350g (12 oz) potatoes
- 150g (5 oz) stracchino or any soft fresh cheese like cream cheese or ricotta
- 30g (1 oz) grated parmesan
- 4 slices of ham
- Puff pastry sheet
- Breadcrumbs (for topping)
- Pepper, oregano (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
- Extra grated parmesan (for sprinkling)
Directions:
- Prepare the potatoes:
- Peel and boil 350g potatoes in salted water until soft. Drain and mash until smooth.
- Mix the filling:
- Combine the mashed potatoes with 150g stracchino (or another soft cheese) and 30g grated parmesan. Season with pepper, oregano, and a pinch of salt.
- 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.
- Layer 4 slices of ham on top of the potato mixture.
- Top and bake:
- Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and extra grated parmesan.
- Drizzle with a little olive oil.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for 25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Let the puff pastry bake cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a bowl of soup.
- Cut into small squares for an appetizer at a party.
- Serve with a dipping sauce like marinara or sour cream.
- Enjoy it as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or nutmeg to the potato mixture.
- Brush the top of the puff pastry with an egg wash for a shiny golden finish.
- Use a rolling pin to slightly thin out the puff pastry if it’s too thick.
- Make sure to drain the potatoes well before mashing to avoid sogginess.
- Substitute the ham with cooked bacon or prosciutto for a different flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in protein: From the cheese and ham.
- Good source of calcium: Due to the parmesan and stracchino cheese.
- Balanced meal: Combines carbohydrates, protein, and fats.
- Rich in potassium: Thanks to the potatoes.
- Source of fiber: From the puff pastry and breadcrumbs.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham or use vegetarian ham slices.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cheese and puff pastry.
- Contains gluten: From the puff pastry and breadcrumbs. Use gluten-free alternatives if needed.
- High in protein: Due to the combination of cheese and ham.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate):
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap portions in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warm and crispy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy: Simple ingredients and fast preparation make this a go-to recipe.
- Comforting: Creamy mashed potatoes and cheese wrapped in buttery puff pastry is ultimate comfort food.
- Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or family meals.
- Customizable: You can switch up the fillings to suit your preferences.
- Make-ahead friendly: Assemble in advance and bake when ready for a no-fuss meal.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Potato Puff Pastry Bake is a savory, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, the combination of mashed potatoes, ham, cheese, and puff pastry is a winning recipe that’s both rich and flavorful. Perfect for any occasion, this bake is a must-try!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Yes, simply omit the ham or substitute it with a plant-based alternative.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Absolutely! Feel free to use ricotta, mozzarella, or any soft cheese you prefer.
- Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the bake ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook.
- How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
- Make sure to drain the potatoes well and use cold puff pastry to keep it crispy.
- Can I freeze the baked casserole?
- Yes, slice it into portions, wrap in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.