This Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry is a delicious, savory snack or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. The crispy, flaky puff pastry wraps around a warm and gooey filling of ham and melted cheese, creating a mouthwatering treat. It’s easy to prepare and can be served as a quick lunch, party appetizer, or a snack for kids and adults alike.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (approximately 250g)
- 150g cooked ham, thinly sliced
- 150g cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your preferred cheese), grated
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme (optional)
Directions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. If using a rectangular sheet, cut it in half lengthwise. You should have two long strips of pastry. - Step 3: Assemble the Filling
Spread a thin layer of mustard (optional) on one side of each pastry strip. Layer the sliced ham and grated cheese evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border on the edges. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. - Step 4: Fold and Seal
Carefully fold the pastry over the filling, creating a long, thin roll or a pocket (depending on your preference). Press the edges of the pastry together to seal the filling inside. - Step 5: Apply the Egg Wash
Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg to give it a golden, glossy finish when baked. - Step 6: Bake the Pastry
Place the prepared pastries onto the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up. - Step 7: Serve
Allow the ham and cheese puff pastry to cool slightly before slicing into individual servings. Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a lunch or dinner with a fresh side salad.
- Pair with a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal.
- Serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Perfect for picnics or lunchboxes.
- Enjoy with a side of pickles or a creamy dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a little Dijon mustard or garlic powder to the filling.
- If you want a crispier texture, you can brush the sides of the pastry with butter before baking.
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer, but a melty cheese like mozzarella or gouda works best.
- Use a serrated knife to slice the pastry after baking to avoid squashing the flaky layers.
Nutritional Benefits
- Ham provides a good source of protein and essential vitamins like B12.
- Cheese is high in calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
- Puff pastry is rich in carbohydrates, providing quick energy.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: No
- Gluten-Free: No
- Dairy-Free: No (contains cheese)
- Low-Carb: No (contains puff pastry)
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days at room temperature.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the baked puff pastries for up to a month. To reheat, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This ham and cheese puff pastry is super easy to make yet incredibly satisfying. The flaky pastry combined with melted cheese and savory ham creates a perfect bite that’s both comforting and indulgent. It’s great for meal prep or to impress guests at your next gathering.
Conclusion
These ham and cheese puff pastries are the ultimate comfort food. With their crispy, golden pastry and warm, cheesy filling, they are sure to be a hit at any meal or occasion. They’re quick to make, customizable with your favorite ingredients, and perfect for a variety of serving styles. Whether for lunch, dinner, or snacks, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these puff pastries in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the puff pastries up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bake them just before serving. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or even brie. - Can I freeze these puff pastries?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked pastries. Just wrap them tightly and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Bake directly from the freezer. - Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or onions to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition. - How can I make the pastry even crispier?
Brush the pastry with melted butter before baking to enhance its golden, crispy texture. - Can I make this recipe without mustard?
Yes, mustard is optional. You can leave it out or substitute it with another condiment like mayo or cream cheese. - Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe. Just ensure it’s thawed if it’s frozen. - How long can I store leftovers?
Store the leftover pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. - Can I use turkey instead of ham?
Yes, turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ham for a lighter version. - How do I know when the puff pastry is fully cooked?
The pastry should be golden brown and puffed up. If it’s still soft or pale, bake for a few more minutes until it reaches a golden color.