Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Delicious and flaky Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets make for a perfect snack or appetizer, filled with savory ham and melted cheese.
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are a delightful treat that combines the flaky goodness of puff pastry with the savory flavors of ham and cheese. Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a quick snack, these pockets are sure to please everyone!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Flaky pastry that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling
- Quick to make and perfect for any occasion
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses and meats
Perfect for Any Occasion
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are incredibly versatile, making them an ideal choice for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together, a festive holiday party, or simply looking for a quick snack, these delightful pockets will impress your guests. They can be served warm right out of the oven or at room temperature, allowing for easy preparation and serving.
Not only do they appeal to both adults and children, but they also fit seamlessly into any menu. Pair them with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal, or serve them alongside a selection of dips for a fun appetizer spread.
Customizable Flavors
One of the best features of these puff pastry pockets is their adaptability. You can easily customize the filling to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Swap out the ham for turkey or chicken, or use a mix of cheeses to create unique flavor combinations. For a twist, consider adding sautéed vegetables or even a hint of mustard for an extra kick.
This recipe encourages creativity in the kitchen, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients. By adding your personal touch, you can create a signature version of these pockets that your family and friends will love.
Easy Preparation
Making Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets is not only quick but also straightforward, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious snack ready in no time. The use of store-bought puff pastry eliminates the need for lengthy dough preparation, allowing you to focus on assembling and baking.
Even if you're short on time, this recipe is a lifesaver. It can be prepared in advance and frozen for later use. Just bake them straight from the freezer when you're ready to enjoy a warm, flaky treat.
Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry Pockets
- 1 package of puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
- 8 oz ham, sliced
- 8 oz cheese (cheddar or Swiss), sliced
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 6 equal squares.
Fill the Pastry Squares
Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese in the center of each pastry square. Season with salt and pepper.
Seal the Pockets
Fold the pastry over to form a triangle and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra seal.
Apply Egg Wash
Brush the tops of the pockets with the beaten egg to give them a golden color while baking.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their flakiness, it's best to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pockets on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes, until warmed through.
For longer storage, these pockets can be frozen before baking. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets, the options are endless. Consider complementing them with a variety of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a zesty marinara. This adds an interactive element to your appetizer presentation and allows guests to personalize their experience.
You can also elevate the dish by serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or a bowl of soup. This not only adds color to your table but also balances the richness of the pastry and filling with some nutritious greens.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pockets and freeze them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.
→ What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar and Swiss are popular choices, but feel free to use your favorite cheese!
→ Can I use whole wheat puff pastry?
Absolutely! Whole wheat puff pastry can be used as a healthier alternative.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets
Delicious and flaky Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets make for a perfect snack or appetizer, filled with savory ham and melted cheese.
Created by: Madeline Archer
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 pockets
What You'll Need
For the Puff Pastry Pockets
- 1 package of puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
- 8 oz ham, sliced
- 8 oz cheese (cheddar or Swiss), sliced
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 6 equal squares.
Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese in the center of each pastry square. Season with salt and pepper.
Fold the pastry over to form a triangle and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra seal.
Brush the tops of the pockets with the beaten egg to give them a golden color while baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 10g