Potato, Ham, and Cheese Puff Pastry Bake

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This Potato, Ham, and Cheese Puff Pastry Bake is a warm and comforting dish that brings together the creamy richness of mashed potatoes, the savory flavor of ham, and the crispiness of puff pastry. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great option for both casual meals and special occasions. The combination of soft cheese and parmesan creates a smooth and flavorful filling, while the puff pastry base adds a delightful crunch. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a light lunch, or even as an appetizer at gatherings.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Potato Filling:

  • 350 g (12 oz) potatoes, peeled
  • 150 g (5 oz) soft cheese (Stracchino, Cream Cheese, or Ricotta)
  • 30 g (1 oz) grated Parmesan cheese + extra for topping
  • 4 slices of ham
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Oregano, to taste

For the Puff Pastry:

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry
  • Breadcrumbs, for topping
  • Olive oil, for drizzling

Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

  • Peel and boil the potatoes in salted water until they are soft and tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  • Drain the potatoes well and mash them until smooth, making sure there are no lumps.

2. Mix the Filling:

  • In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the soft cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste. Stir until all ingredients are well combined, creating a smooth and creamy filling.

3. Assemble the Bake:

  • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
  • 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 over the potato mixture, making sure they are evenly distributed.

4. Top and Bake:

  • Sprinkle breadcrumbs and extra grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the assembled bake.
  • Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for added crispiness and flavor.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve:

  • Once baked, let the dish cool slightly before slicing into portions.
  • Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

  • With a Fresh Salad: Pair the bake with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a hearty and nutritious meal.
  • As an Appetizer: Cut into small squares for an easy-to-serve appetizer at parties or gatherings.
  • With Dipping Sauces: Serve with marinara sauce, sour cream, or garlic aioli for a fun dipping experience.
  • Tea or Coffee Pairing: Enjoy as a savory snack with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Cooking Tips

  • Crispier Texture: For an extra crispy topping, use more breadcrumbs and drizzle a bit more olive oil before baking.
  • Add Herbs for Flavor: You can add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the potato mixture for additional flavor.
  • Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore its crispiness.

Variations to Try

  • Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham and use vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version.
  • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Cheese Variation: Try adding different cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or cheddar to create a unique flavor profile.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Potatoes: A great source of carbohydrates and potassium, providing energy and supporting heart health.
  • Cheese: Packed with calcium and protein, important for bone health and muscle repair.
  • Ham: Provides a good source of protein and essential vitamins, though you can opt for a leaner cut to reduce fat intake.
  • Olive Oil: A source of healthy fats that support heart health and provide antioxidants.

Conclusion

This Potato, Ham, and Cheese Puff Pastry Bake is a comforting, delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, savory ham, and crispy puff pastry is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, as an appetizer, or as a snack, this bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s the perfect recipe for busy days or when you want to indulge in a flavorful homemade treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the entire dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just bake it right before serving.

  2. Can I use frozen puff pastry? Yes, frozen puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe. Just thaw it according to the package instructions before using it.

  3. Can I substitute the ham? Yes, you can substitute the ham with turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

  4. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère for a different flavor.

  5. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this dish can be frozen. Wrap the leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store in the freezer for up to a month. Reheat in the oven for best results

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