Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Delightful, flaky puff pastry filled with savory ham and melted cheese, perfect for a quick snack or a party appetizer.
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are a delicious way to enjoy a classic flavor combination. Perfect for lunch, a snack, or entertaining guests, they are quick to prepare and always a hit!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flaky, buttery pastry that is irresistible
- Savory ham with gooey melted cheese in every bite
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to elegant gatherings
Perfect for Any Occasion
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are versatile enough to suit any gathering, whether it’s a casual get-together or a formal event. Their delightful combination of flaky pastry and savory fillings makes them a hit among guests of all ages. Serve these pockets as appetizers at your next party, or enjoy them as a quick snack during a busy day. Their convenience and flavor make them a must-have recipe in your culinary repertoire.
The beauty of these pockets lies in their adaptability. You can easily customize the filling to suit your preferences. Consider adding ingredients like sautéed onions, mustard, or even a touch of sweetness with a slice of apple. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that every time you make them, they can be a completely new experience.
A Simple Yet Impressive Recipe
One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet. The flaky texture of the puff pastry combined with the rich flavors of ham and cheese will impress your family and friends, making it seem like you spent hours in the kitchen.
This recipe is not only easy to follow but also quick to prepare. In less than 30 minutes, you can have these delightful pockets ready for the oven. This makes them an excellent choice for unexpected guests or when you want to whip up something delicious without a lot of fuss.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets is simple. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them before baking. Just wrap each pocket individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They'll keep well for about a month.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven for the best texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pockets on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy. This will help maintain that wonderful flaky texture, ensuring every bite is just as delicious as the first.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets:
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 6 oz ham, sliced
- 6 oz cheese (cheddar or Swiss), sliced
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Flour for dusting
Make sure to have everything ready before you start assembling the pockets!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares, approximately 4x4 inches.
Fill the Pockets
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 a decorative look.
Apply Egg Wash
Brush the tops of the pockets with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Serve
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets!
These pockets are best served warm and can be paired with your favorite dipping sauce!
Serving Suggestions
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Consider serving them with a tangy mustard, a creamy ranch, or a sweet chili sauce to elevate the flavors further. A fresh side salad or a light soup can also complement these pockets, making for a well-rounded meal or snack.
For a fun twist, try serving these pockets at your next brunch. They can be a delightful addition to a spread of breakfast items, alongside fresh fruit, pastries, and coffee. Their versatility makes them suitable for both breakfast and lunch, ensuring they can fit seamlessly into any menu.
Nutritional Information
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are not only delicious but can also be a part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Each pocket provides protein from the ham and cheese, along with carbohydrates from the puff pastry. To enhance the nutritional value, consider adding vegetables to the filling, such as spinach or bell peppers.
If you're looking to make these pockets healthier, you can opt for whole grain or reduced-fat cheese. Additionally, experimenting with low-sodium ham can help reduce the overall sodium content, making it a better option for those monitoring their intake.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other fillings?
Absolutely! You can fill the pockets with chicken, vegetables, or any cheese of your choice.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
→ Can I freeze these pockets?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pockets. Just assemble them, freeze on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a freezer bag.
→ How do I know when they are done baking?
They should be golden brown and puffed up. If you tap the surface, it should sound hollow.
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets
Delightful, flaky puff pastry filled with savory ham and melted cheese, perfect for a quick snack or a party appetizer.
Created by: Imogen Walker
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 pockets
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 6 oz ham, sliced
- 6 oz cheese (cheddar or Swiss), sliced
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Flour for dusting
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares, approximately 4x4 inches.
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 a decorative look.
Brush the tops of the pockets with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Allow to 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: 55mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g