Quick Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Appetizer

This quick and easy ham and cheese puff pastry appetizer is perfect for parties, game nights, or a simple snack. With a flaky, buttery crust and gooey cheese paired with savory ham, it’s an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed (about 250 g)
  • 150 g (5 oz) ham, thinly sliced or diced
  • 150 g (5 oz) cheese, shredded (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for flavor)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Directions

  • Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Prepare the Puff Pastry:
    • Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
    • Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the pastry (if using).
  • Add Ham and Cheese:
    • Layer the sliced ham evenly over one half of the puff pastry.
    • Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the ham.
  • Fold and Seal:
    • Fold the other half of the pastry over the ham and cheese to form a rectangle.
    • Press the edges firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
  • Cut and Prepare:
    • Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into squares or rectangles.
    • Place the pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Apply Egg Wash:
    • Brush the tops of the pastry squares with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
    • Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor (optional).
  • Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
  • Serve:
    • Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a side of marinara or mustard sauce for dipping.
  • Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
  • Add a few pickles or olives on the side for a savory snack platter.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold for easy handling.
  • For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or garlic powder before baking.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Ham: Provides protein and adds a savory flavor.
  • Cheese: Rich in calcium and protein.
  • Puff Pastry: Offers a buttery, flaky texture that’s satisfying and indulgent.

Dietary Information

  • Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.
  • Can be made vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

  • Calories: ~250
  • Protein: ~8 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~18 g
  • Fat: ~15 g

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
  • Perfect for parties, snacks, or appetizers.
  • Versatile – customize with your favorite fillings.
  • Crispy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying!

Conclusion
This quick ham and cheese puff pastry appetizer combines flaky pastry with a savory filling to create a crowd-pleasing snack. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use pre-grated cheese?
    Yes, but freshly grated cheese melts better and has a richer flavor.
  2. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
    Yes, assemble the pastries and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before baking.
  3. Can I freeze these pastries?
    Yes, freeze unbaked pastries. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  4. Can I use puff pastry sheets instead of a single sheet?
    Absolutely! Adjust the assembly accordingly.
  5. What other fillings can I use?
    Try spinach and feta, turkey and cranberry, or even a sweet filling like Nutella and banana.
  6. Can I use gluten-free puff pastry?
    Yes, if available, for a gluten-free version.
  7. How do I prevent the edges from opening while baking?
    Ensure the edges are well-sealed and crimped. Use water or egg wash as a sealant.
  8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving.
  9. Can I make these dairy-free?
    Use dairy-free cheese and skip the egg wash, or use a plant-based milk wash.
  10. How many servings does this recipe make?
    It makes 6-8 appetizers, depending on the size of the cuts.