Looking for a delectable treat that’s quick to whip up and sure to impress? Say hello to Ham Cheese Puff Pastry! This French-inspired delight combines the flaky, buttery goodness of puff pastry with savory diced ham and melted cheese, creating a mouthwatering experience that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you're hosting a gathering, preparing a cozy family dinner, or simply craving a snack, these golden pastries are the perfect solution. Ready to elevate your cooking game and wow your guests? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to deliver delicious results in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup cheese (e.g., Swiss or Gruyère), shredded
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your puff pastry will rise beautifully and become golden brown.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the sheet of puff pastry to smooth out any creases and to slightly enlarge it. Aim for a rectangular shape that is about 1/8 inch thick.
- Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry into squares or rectangles, approximately 4x4 inches each. This will be the base for your ham and cheese filling.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced cooked ham and shredded cheese. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring that the flavors are well balanced.
- Place a generous spoonful of the ham and cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the edges of the pastry squares with the beaten egg. This will help seal the pastries and give them a beautiful golden color when baked.
- Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle, depending on the shape you cut earlier. Press the edges firmly to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra decorative touch.
- Place the filled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each pastry to allow for puffing during baking.
- Brush the tops of the pastries with the remaining beaten egg to give them a rich, shiny finish.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed up and golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious ham and cheese puff pastries warm!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your ham and cheese will shine through, so opt for high-quality Swiss or Gruyère cheese and freshly cooked ham for the best results.
- Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, be sure to leave enough space around the edges to seal the pastries properly. Overfilling can cause them to burst during baking.
- Keep the Pastry Cold: If your puff pastry starts to get warm and sticky while you’re working with it, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes. Cold pastry puffs up better in the oven!
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative! Add some sautéed onions, herbs, or even a touch of mustard to your filling for a flavor twist.
- Perfectly Bake: Keep an eye on your pastries as they bake. Ovens can vary, so check for that golden brown color at the 15-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Enhance your Ham Cheese Puff Pastry experience by serving them with a side of mustard or a tangy dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 85mg
