This Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry is a delightful, flaky, and savory snack that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even as an appetizer. With its golden, crisp pastry and gooey cheese combined with savory ham, this dish is both easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a quick meal, or craving a tasty snack, these puff pastry pockets will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 30-35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 100g (about 3.5 oz) sliced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
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Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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Prepare the puff pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. If your pastry is not pre-rolled, roll it to about 1/8 inch thickness.
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Assemble the puff pastry pockets: Cut the puff pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference (about 4×4 inch squares work well). Place a slice of ham in the center of each pastry square. Top with a generous amount of shredded cheese. If you like a bit of tang, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on top of the ham before adding the cheese.
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Fold and seal: Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle shape, sealing the edges tightly by pressing them together with a fork to prevent the filling from escaping while baking.
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Prepare the egg wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg with a tablespoon of water. Brush the tops of the puff pastry pockets with the egg wash to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.
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Bake the pastry: Place the pastry pockets on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them toward the end to ensure they don’t over-brown.
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Serve and enjoy: Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutritional Facts (Per serving – makes 4 pastries)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Iron: 2mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Puff pastry has been a staple in many European kitchens for centuries, known for its flaky, buttery layers that are created through a careful folding and rolling process. While the exact origins of puff pastry are difficult to pin down, it is believed to have originated in France during the 17th century, and its popularity spread across Europe and beyond.
The combination of ham and cheese is a classic pairing, found in many cultures, from the French croque-monsieur to the Italian panino. The use of puff pastry to wrap these savory ingredients elevates the dish into something special, making it perfect for casual meals, picnics, or as a party appetizer. These ham and cheese puff pastries are an easy-to-make variation of a timeless combination, offering a crispy, flaky exterior and a savory, melty filling that is sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love these ham and cheese puff pastries for their simplicity and unbeatable flavor. The combination of savory ham, gooey cheese, and flaky pastry is truly comforting and satisfying. They’re quick to prepare, and you can customize the filling with your favorite cheeses, meats, or even add a bit of mustard or herbs for extra flavor. Whether you need a snack, lunch, or a quick dinner, these puff pastry pockets are the perfect choice.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
While these ham and cheese puff pastries are indulgent, they do provide some nutritional benefits. Ham is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The cheese provides calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. Additionally, using whole wheat puff pastry (if available) can add more fiber to the recipe. Keep in mind, puff pastry is quite rich in butter and fat, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Serving Suggestions
- For breakfast: Serve these puff pastries with a side of fresh fruit or a light green salad for a well-rounded breakfast or brunch.
- As a snack: These make the perfect savory snack. Enjoy them on their own or with a tangy dipping sauce like mustard or ketchup.
- As an appetizer: Serve them at your next gathering or party. They’re easy to make in large batches and can be served as finger food alongside other appetizers.
- With a side salad: Pair these pastries with a fresh, crisp salad for a quick lunch or dinner. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing works wonderfully to balance the richness of the pastries.
Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses: While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like Swiss, Gruyère, or gouda for a unique flavor.
- Add herbs: Sprinkle some dried thyme, rosemary, or basil into the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
- Use a store-bought puff pastry: If you’re short on time, using store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe even easier, and it still turns out delicious.
- Make mini versions: You can make these puff pastries into smaller, bite-sized versions, perfect for party appetizers or snacks.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian version: Swap the ham for vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers to create a vegetarian version of this puff pastry.
- Spicy version: Add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Cheese-filled: If you love cheese, stuff the puff pastry with extra cheese or a cheese mixture for a gooey, indulgent filling.
Conclusion
These ham and cheese puff pastries are a delicious, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of flaky, buttery pastry and savory ham and cheese is hard to beat, and the recipe is simple enough for even beginner bakers. You can make them ahead of time, and they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you serve them for breakfast, lunch, as a snack, or at a party, these puff pastries will be a crowd-pleaser every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the puff pastry pockets in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are chilled.
2. Can I freeze these pastries? Yes, you can freeze the assembled pastries before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time from frozen.
3. Can I use other meats? Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the ham for other meats like turkey, chicken, or even bacon for a different flavor.
4. Can I make these puff pastries with a gluten-free pastry? Yes, you can use gluten-free puff pastry to make these pastries gluten-free. Just ensure the puff pastry you use is suitable for your dietary need