Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Rolls with Spicy BBQ Tomato Sauce

These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Rolls are crispy, cheesy, and packed with smoky flavors. The flaky puff pastry wraps around gooey mozzarella and savory ham, making them the perfect snack, appetizer, or light meal. Paired with a spicy homemade BBQ tomato sauce, these rolls are a delicious and easy-to-make treat for any occasion.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry Rolls:

  • 450 g (1 lb) puff pastry, thawed
  • 300 g (10.5 oz) mozzarella, shredded
  • 450 g (1 lb) ham, thinly sliced

For the Spicy BBQ Tomato Sauce:

  • 70 g (¼ cup) barbecue sauce
  • 350 g (12 oz) tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 100 g (3.5 oz) white onions, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 hot pepper, finely diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Directions

1. Prepare the Spicy BBQ Tomato Sauce:

  • Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in chopped tomatoes, barbecue sauce, and hot pepper.
  • Season with salt, black pepper, and sugar.
  • Simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
  • Blend for a smooth texture or leave chunky for a rustic feel.

2. Assemble the Puff Pastry Rolls:

  • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  • Roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
  • Evenly layer ham and mozzarella over the pastry.
  • Gently roll the pastry into a log shape, sealing the edges with water.
  • Slice into 1-inch rolls and place them on a lined baking sheet.

3. Bake the Puff Pastry Rolls:

  • Brush the tops with a beaten egg (optional, for a golden finish).
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

4. Serve:

  • Let cool slightly before serving.
  • Serve warm with the spicy BBQ tomato sauce on the side.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
  • Pair with garlic aioli or honey mustard dip for extra flavor.
  • Enjoy as a party snack or appetizer.

Cooking Tips

  • Use a sharp knife to cut the rolls cleanly.
  • Chill the puff pastry slightly before cutting to maintain shape.
  • For extra crispiness, brush the rolls with an egg wash before baking.
  • Add herbs like oregano or basil for more flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

  • High in protein from ham and mozzarella.
  • Rich in calcium from cheese.
  • Contains antioxidants from fresh tomatoes.
  • Balanced combination of carbs, fats, and protein.

Dietary Information

  • Not suitable for vegetarians (contains ham).
  • Contains gluten and dairy – not suitable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.

Nutritional Facts (Per Roll, Approx.)

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Calcium: 150mg

Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5 minutes to cooking time.
  • Reheating: Warm in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
  • Easy to make with simple ingredients.
  • Perfect for parties, snacks, or lunchboxes.
  • Pairs with a delicious homemade BBQ sauce.

Conclusion
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Rolls are the perfect blend of flaky pastry, melted cheese, and smoky ham, complemented by a bold and spicy BBQ tomato sauce. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or quick meal, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy a crispy, cheesy delight!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
    Yes! You can use your favorite brand if you prefer.
  2. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
    Yes! Assemble and refrigerate before baking.
  3. What’s the best way to slice the rolls neatly?
    Chill the rolled pastry for 10 minutes before slicing.
  4. Can I make them spicy?
    Add extra hot pepper or a pinch of chili flakes to the filling.
  5. What cheese can I use instead of mozzarella?
    Cheddar, gouda, or provolone work great.
  6. Can I make these without ham?
    Yes! Use turkey, salami, or a vegetarian substitute.
  7. Can I air-fry these instead of baking?
    Yes! Air-fry at 180°C (350°F) for 12-15 minutes.
  8. How do I keep the pastry crispy?
    Bake on a preheated baking sheet for even crispiness.
  9. Can I make a larger batch?
    Yes! Just double the ingredients accordingly.
  10. How can I make them healthier?
    Use whole-wheat puff pastry and reduce cheese.