Savory Puff Pastry with Ham, Cheese, and Vegetables

This savory puff pastry recipe combines the rich flavors of ham, cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and seasoned ground meat for a hearty and delicious dish. Perfect for a main course or a party appetizer, it’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients
Main Ingredients:

  • Puff Pastry: 1 sheet (store-bought or homemade)
  • Ham: Sliced (as needed)
  • Cheese: Grated or sliced (as needed)
  • Mayonnaise: 2-3 tbsp
  • Eggs: 1, beaten (for egg wash)

Vegetable Filling:

  • Red Onion: 1, finely chopped
  • Mushrooms: 150g, sliced
  • Tomato Paste: 1 tbsp
  • Salt: To taste
  • Black Pepper: To taste
  • Oil: 2-3 tbsp (for frying)

Meat Filling:

  • Ground Meat: 300g
  • Paprika: 1/2 tsp
  • Dried Garlic: 1/2 tsp
  • Salt: To taste
  • Black Pepper: To taste
  • Oil: 1-2 tbsp (for frying)

Toppings:

  • Sesame Seeds: 1 tbsp
  • Poppy Seeds: 1 tbsp
  • Chives: 1 tbsp, chopped
  • Parsley: 1 tbsp, chopped

Directions

  • Prepare the Vegetable Filling:
    • Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
    • Sauté red onion until translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
    • Stir in tomato paste, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes and set aside.
  • Prepare the Meat Filling:
    • In the same skillet, heat oil and add ground meat.
    • Season with paprika, dried garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove from heat and let cool.
  • Assemble the Puff Pastry:
    • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface.
    • Spread mayonnaise evenly over the surface.
    • Layer with ham, cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and cooked meat.
  • Seal and Top the Pastry:
    • Roll the pastry into a log or fold it into a rectangular pocket. Seal the edges tightly.
    • Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, chives, and parsley.
  • Bake:
    • Transfer to a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
  • Serve:
    • Let the pastry cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a fresh green salad or a bowl of soup.
  • Serve as a hearty snack or a centerpiece at gatherings.

Cooking Tips

  • Use chilled puff pastry to make it easier to handle.
  • Customize the filling with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or seasonings.
  • Brush with egg wash for a shiny and golden crust.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
  • Mushrooms: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
  • Ground Meat: A good source of protein and iron.

Dietary Information

  • Contains Dairy, Gluten, and Eggs.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx.):

  • Calories: 300
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze slices in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to prepare with versatile filling options.
  • A perfect combination of flaky pastry and rich, savory fillings.
  • Great for any meal or occasion, from breakfast to dinner.
  • Customizable with your favorite ingredients.

Conclusion
This savory puff pastry recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Its flaky crust, flavorful filling, and delightful toppings make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade goodness!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, omit the meat and add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
  • Can I use other types of cheese? Absolutely! Cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella work well.
  • What if I don’t have sesame or poppy seeds? Skip them or replace with flaxseeds or grated cheese.
  • Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, assemble the pastry, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
  • What can I use instead of tomato paste? Try ketchup or a thin layer of marinara sauce.
  • Can I use pre-cooked meat? Yes, leftover cooked chicken or beef works great.
  • Can I use filo pastry instead of puff pastry? Yes, but layer it with melted butter between sheets for the best results.
  • What if my puff pastry doesn’t rise? Ensure your oven is fully preheated, and don’t roll the pastry too thin.
  • Can I freeze the assembled pastry before baking? Yes, freeze unbaked and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
  • How do I reheat leftovers? Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes to maintain crispness.