Prepare to be captivated by this incredibly versatile and utterly delicious Savory Puff Pastry Tart with Bacon, Ham, and Cheese. This dish transforms simple ingredients into a golden, flaky masterpiece, perfect for any occasion. Imagine crisp layers of puff pastry cradling a rich, savory filling of creamy cheese, smoky bacon, tender ham, and a vibrant tomato base, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting, hearty, and surprisingly elegant dish that works equally well as a hearty breakfast, a delightful brunch centerpiece, a quick and satisfying lunch, or a charming appetizer for gatherings. Its ease of preparation belies its impressive appearance and depth of flavor, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 400g (approx. 1 sheet) Puff pastry, thawed
• 1 large Egg, for egg wash
• 100g (approx. 7-8 slices) Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 150g Ham, diced or shredded
• 100g Cream cheese, softened
• 100g Shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)
• 150g Canned chopped tomatoes (in their own juice), drained
• 1 clove Garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
• 70g (approx. 1/2 medium) Cucumber, thinly sliced or diced (for optional garnish)

 

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Carefully unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet onto the prepared baking sheet. If it’s a rectangular sheet, you can score a border about 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the edges, being careful not to cut all the way through the pastry. This will help create a raised crust.
3. In a small bowl, lightly beat the large egg with a fork to create an egg wash. Brush the entire surface of the puff pastry, including the scored edges, with the egg wash. This will help with browning and provide a nice sheen.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper. Mix well until smooth.
5. Evenly spread the seasoned cream cheese mixture over the puff pastry, staying within the scored border if you made one.
6. Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled bacon evenly over the cream cheese layer. Follow with the diced ham, distributing it well across the pastry.
7. Scatter the drained chopped tomatoes over the ham and bacon. If your tomatoes are very watery, ensure they are well drained to prevent a soggy tart. Season lightly with a little more salt and black pepper over the filling.
8. Generously sprinkle the 100g of shredded cheese over the entire filling.
9. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the scored edges of the puff pastry (or over the entire tart for extra flavor and crunch).
10. Carefully transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed up, golden brown, and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Once baked, remove the tart from the oven. Let it cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before slicing.
12. Slice the tart into desired portions. Optionally, scatter the thinly sliced or diced cucumber over the top of the tart just before serving for a fresh, cool contrast. Serve warm.

 

Nutrients

• Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving (calculated for 8 servings, highly variable based on specific brands of ingredients, fat content of cheese, and exact portion size)
• Protein: High (from bacon, ham, various cheeses, egg)
• Carbohydrates: Moderate (from puff pastry, some from tomatoes)
• Fat: High (from puff pastry, bacon, ham, cheeses)
• Saturated Fat: High (from bacon, ham, cheeses)
• Sugar: Low (negligible from natural sources in tomatoes)
• Fiber: Low (some from tomatoes)
• Sodium: High (from bacon, ham, cheese, added salt)
• Vitamins & Minerals: Provides some B vitamins (meats, egg), Calcium (cheese), Iron (meats), and Vitamin C (tomatoes, albeit low).

 

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15-20 minutes (includes thawing puff pastry if not already)
• Cook time: 15-20 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 30-40 minutes

 

About This Recipe: Savory Puff Pastry Tart with Bacon, Ham & Cheese

This Savory Puff Pastry Tart with Bacon, Ham, and Cheese is a magnificent culinary creation that effortlessly combines convenience with gourmet appeal. At its heart, the dish leverages the miraculous simplicity of store-bought puff pastry, transforming it into a beautifully flaky, golden base with minimal effort. The tart begins with a foundation of creamy, seasoned cream cheese, which provides a rich, tangy counterpoint to the savory elements. This is then generously layered with two classic breakfast and brunch meats: smoky, crispy bacon and tender, savory ham, ensuring a hearty and satisfying bite. A scattering of drained chopped tomatoes introduces a vibrant, slightly acidic note, cutting through the richness and adding a juicy burst of flavor. Finally, a liberal blanket of shredded cheese, typically a melty variety like mozzarella or cheddar, melts into a golden, bubbly crust, while an optional sprinkle of sesame seeds on the edges adds a delightful nutty crunch and visual appeal. The entire ensemble is baked until the pastry is gloriously puffed and golden, creating a stunning visual impact. What makes this tart truly remarkable is its ability to deliver a complex, satisfying flavor profile and an impressive presentation with minimal hands-on time, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals seeking a delicious, homemade meal or appetizer without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a comforting, versatile dish that proves elegance and ease can indeed go hand-in-hand.

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You will undoubtedly fall in love with this Savory Puff Pastry Tart for a multitude of compelling reasons that highlight its deliciousness, versatility, and sheer convenience. Firstly, its unmatched ease of preparation is a major draw. With store-bought puff pastry doing most of the heavy lifting, assembling this tart takes mere minutes, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights, last-minute cravings, or when you need an impressive dish without the fuss. Secondly, the explosion of savory flavors is utterly irresistible. The combination of salty bacon, tender ham, tangy cream cheese, juicy tomatoes, and melted shredded cheese creates a harmonious medley of tastes that satisfies deeply and leaves you craving more. Thirdly, the delightful textural contrast is a highlight. The golden, flaky, buttery layers of puff pastry provide a satisfying crispness that perfectly complements the soft, rich, and slightly yielding texture of the cheesy, meaty filling. This interplay of textures elevates the humble ingredients. Fourthly, it boasts incredible versatility for any meal or occasion. It’s substantial enough for a hearty breakfast or brunch, light enough for a lunch alongside a simple salad, and elegant enough to serve as an appetizer at a party. Its adaptability makes it a true culinary chameleon. Finally, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The familiar and beloved flavors of bacon, ham, and cheese, combined with the appealing look of a golden tart, ensure that this dish is almost universally enjoyed by adults and children alike, making you a star in the kitchen with minimal effort.

 

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

The concept of baking savory fillings within a flaky pastry crust is a culinary tradition with deep and widespread roots across many cultures, dating back centuries. Puff pastry itself (also known as pâte feuilletée) has a rich history, with its origins debated between French and possibly Middle Eastern or Mediterranean influences, evolving into the refined, multi-layered dough we know today, perfected in European baking during the 17th and 18th centuries. The idea of using this pastry to encase savory ingredients is a natural extension of its versatility, leading to countless variations like French pâtés en croûte, British meat pies, and various strudels. This specific Savory Puff Pastry Tart with Bacon, Ham, and Cheese draws inspiration from a broad category of baked savory pastries, often resembling open-faced tarts, quiches without the egg-heavy custard, or even a deconstructed pizza on a flaky base. It echoes the concept of the French tarte salée (savory tart) or even rustic Italian torta salata. The combination of bacon, ham, and cheese is a classic European pairing, frequently found in omelets, sandwiches, and various baked dishes, originating from the common availability and popularity of these ingredients. The addition of cream cheese provides a modern touch, offering an extra layer of creaminess and tang that differentiates it from traditional uses of béchamel or egg-heavy fillings. Tomatoes in their own juice add a rustic, slightly saucy element, reminiscent of a pizza or a rich stew filling. Thus, while there isn’t one singular “origin” point for this exact recipe, it represents a contemporary and simplified homage to centuries of European savory baking, marrying classic flavor combinations with the convenience of modern, ready-made puff pastry to create a comforting and universally appealing dish.

 

Storage and Reheating Tips

To ensure your Savory Puff Pastry Tart remains as delicious as possible, proper storage and reheating techniques are key. Once the tart has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer any leftover portions to an airtight container. This is crucial for preventing the pastry from becoming soggy and to keep the fillings fresh. Stored in the refrigerator, the tart will maintain its quality for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the tart. To do so, allow the tart to cool completely, then wrap individual slices or larger portions tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container. The frozen tart can be stored for up to 2 months. When it comes to reheating, the goal is to restore the crispness of the puff pastry, which can become soft in the refrigerator. Avoid using a microwave for reheating, as it will make the pastry soggy. The best method for reheating is in an oven or toaster oven. Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F). Place the refrigerated slices directly on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the pastry is re-crisped and the filling is heated through. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw the tart in the refrigerator overnight first, then follow the same oven reheating instructions, which might take a bit longer (around 15-20 minutes). An air fryer also works exceptionally well for reheating, providing excellent crispness in about 5-8 minutes at 150°C (300°F). Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) for food safety before serving.

 

Pairing Recommendations

The Savory Puff Pastry Tart with Bacon, Ham, and Cheese is a wonderfully versatile dish that lends itself to a variety of pairings, making it suitable for different meals and occasions. For a light and refreshing balance, a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette (such as a balsamic or lemon vinaigrette) is an excellent choice; its acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and pastry. A vibrant cucumber salad (perhaps with dill and a light yogurt dressing) or sliced fresh cucumber as a garnish, as alluded to in the original input, would also provide a cool, crunchy contrast. If serving for brunch, it pairs beautifully with fresh fruit salad or a side of scrambled eggs for extra protein. For beverages, a crisp, dry white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or an un-oaked Chardonnay would complement the savory flavors without overpowering them. A light-bodied rosé or even a chilled lager beer would also make excellent choices, especially if serving as an appetizer. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling cider or a simple glass of iced tea or lemonade would be refreshing. This tart also makes a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board, allowing guests to enjoy individual slices alongside cured meats, cheeses, and olives. If serving as a main course, consider a simple vegetable soup or a light pasta dish on the side. The key is to choose accompaniments that provide a fresh contrast or complement the rich, savory notes of the tart, making for a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.

 

Health Benefits

While the Savory Puff Pastry Tart with Bacon, Ham, and Cheese is certainly a treat and not a low-calorie health food, it does offer some nutritional components and can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. The puff pastry, while delicious, is energy-dense due to its fat content. However, the fillings contribute valuable macronutrients. Bacon and ham provide significant amounts of protein, essential for muscle building and repair, as well as B vitamins (like Niacin, B6, B12) and minerals such as zinc and selenium. The various cheeses (cream cheese and shredded cheese) are excellent sources of calcium, vital for bone health, and also contribute high-quality protein and fat-soluble vitamins. Eggs, used for the egg wash, are a complete protein source and rich in Vitamin D and choline. The tomatoes, even when canned, offer Vitamin C (an antioxidant) and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to various health benefits. Garlic provides potential immune-boosting compounds and anti-inflammatory properties. If using the optional fresh cucumber as a garnish, it adds hydration, a refreshing element, and some Vitamin K. To slightly lighten the dish, one could opt for lower-fat versions of cream cheese and shredded cheese, choose leaner ham, or blot excess fat from cooked bacon. Incorporating more vegetables into the filling, such as spinach or mushrooms, would also boost fiber and nutrient content. Ultimately, this tart offers a satisfying blend of protein and flavor, and when portioned appropriately and balanced with fresh vegetables, it can be a delicious component of a varied diet.

 

Conclusion

The Savory Puff Pastry Tart with Bacon, Ham, and Cheese is a shining example of how effortless techniques can yield a dish of remarkable flavor and impressive presentation. From its golden, flaky crust to its rich, savory filling, every element harmonizes to create a truly comforting and versatile culinary experience. We’ve explored its simple assembly, its broad appeal for any meal, and its connections to a rich history of baked savory pastries. This tart is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the magic of puff pastry and the timeless appeal of classic flavor combinations. Whether you’re looking for a quick yet elegant weeknight dinner, a standout brunch item, or an easy crowd-pleasing appetizer, this dish delivers on all fronts. Embrace its simplicity and savor its deliciousness, as this Savory Puff Pastry Tart is destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, promising delightful moments for every bite.