This Savory Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry is an irresistible snack or meal option, featuring a buttery, flaky pastry filled with savory ham and melted cheese. Topped with a rich béchamel sauce and garnished with tangy pickled cucumbers, it’s a delicious balance of flavors and textures that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a party or a quick meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Puff Pastry:
- Puff Pastry: 500g
- Mustard: 50g
- Ham: 200g, thinly sliced
- Cheese: 200g, grated or thinly sliced (cheddar, Gruyère, or Swiss)
- Egg: 1, for egg wash
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- Butter: 30g
- Flour: 25g
- Milk: 300ml
- Nutmeg: 4g
- Black Pepper: 5g
- Salt: 10g
- Parmesan Cheese: 30g, grated
For Garnish:
- Pickled Cucumbers: 40g, finely chopped
Directions:
- Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out 500g puff pastry to your desired thickness.
- Spread 50g mustard evenly over the pastry.
- Step 2: Add the Fillings
- Layer 200g ham over the mustard-covered pastry.
- Sprinkle or layer 200g cheese on top of the ham.
- Step 3: Fold and Seal
- Fold the puff pastry over the filling to create a sealed pocket or roll.
- Brush the top of the pastry with a beaten egg for a glossy, golden finish.
- Step 4: Bake the Puff Pastry
- Place the prepared pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
- Step 5: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt 30g butter over medium heat.
- Add 25g flour and whisk continuously to form a roux.
- Gradually add 300ml milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Season with 4g nutmeg, 5g black pepper, 10g salt, and 30g Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Remove the puff pastry from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Serve with the béchamel sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with finely chopped pickled cucumbers for added flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a bowl of tomato soup for a cozy meal.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.
- Serve as part of a brunch spread alongside scrambled eggs.
- Add a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha for a bit of heat.
Cooking Tips:
- Roll the puff pastry thinner for a lighter texture or thicker for a heartier bite.
- If you like extra crunch, sprinkle some sesame or poppy seeds on top before baking.
- Let the béchamel sauce cool slightly before serving to thicken it up more.
- Make sure to seal the edges of the pastry well to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the pastry after baking for cleaner slices.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cheese: A great source of protein and calcium.
- Ham: Provides protein and essential vitamins like B12.
- Mustard: Adds flavor without adding many calories or fat.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry and a gluten-free flour substitute for the béchamel sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve without the puff pastry and enjoy the ham, cheese, and béchamel as a delicious topping for roasted vegetables.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) to maintain the crispiness of the puff pastry.
- You can freeze unbaked puff pastry rolls for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of ham, cheese, and mustard with the creamy béchamel is pure comfort food.
- Customizable: Switch up the fillings or toppings to suit your taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or family dinners—everyone will love it!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the puff pastry in advance and bake just before serving.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re looking for an indulgent snack or a savory meal, this Savory Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry with Béchamel Sauce is the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings. The rich flavors of ham, cheese, and mustard combined with the creamy béchamel sauce make this dish both comforting and delicious. Easy to prepare, it’s sure to impress your family and guests alike. Try it once, and you’ll be making it again and again!