Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are a quick and delicious snack or meal that’s both savory and flaky. With just a few ingredients, you can make these pockets for breakfast, lunch, or as a party appetizer. The combination of warm ham, melted cheese, and flaky pastry is simply irresistible!
Here’s a simple recipe for Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets:
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought, thawed)
- 1 cup sliced ham, chopped into small pieces
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella work great)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional, for a bit of tang)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme), optional for garnish
- Olive oil or butter for brushing (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles (about 4-6 pieces, depending on the size you want your pockets to be).
3. Make the Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the chopped ham and shredded cheese. If you’d like to add a little zing, you can stir in mustard or a bit of mayonnaise for extra flavor. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the Pockets:
- Place a generous spoonful of the ham and cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square.
- Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle (depending on your cut). Press the edges together tightly with a fork to seal the pockets, or use your fingers to pinch the edges together.
5. Egg Wash and Baking:
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg to make an egg wash. Brush the top of each pocket with the egg wash to give them a golden, shiny finish when baked.
- If you prefer, you can also brush the pockets with a bit of olive oil or melted butter for extra crispness.
6. Bake:
- Place the filled puff pastry pockets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
7. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Optionally, garnish with some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a fresh touch.
Tips:
- Add veggies: You can add finely chopped veggies like spinach, onions, or peppers to the filling for added flavor and texture.
- Different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like gruyere, brie, or cream cheese for a more decadent filling.
- Storage: These can be made ahead and stored in the fridge before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy them.
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are crispy on the outside, warm and cheesy on the inside, and absolutely delicious! Perfect for a quick meal or party snack. Enjoy!