Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Deliciously flaky and filled with savory ham and gooey cheese, these Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are the perfect snack or appetizer.
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of ham and cheese with the light, flaky texture of puff pastry. Perfect for entertaining or a quick snack, these pockets are sure to please everyone!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flaky and buttery pastry that’s easy to make
- Savory ham paired with melted cheese for a perfect bite
- Quick to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights
Perfect for Any Occasion
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for a wide range of occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together, a birthday party, or simply looking for a satisfying snack, these delicious pockets fit the bill. Their appealing appearance and delightful flavor will impress your guests, making them a hit at any gathering.
These pastry pockets are not just for parties; they can also be a fantastic addition to your family's dinner table. They offer a fun twist on traditional meals, allowing everyone to enjoy a handheld delight. Serve them with a side salad or some fresh fruit for a balanced meal that everyone will love.
Easy to Customize
One of the best features of Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets is their adaptability. While the classic combination of ham and cheese is undeniably delicious, you can easily switch things up to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a nutritious boost. You could also experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to create unique flavor profiles.
For those who prefer a meat-free option, try substituting the ham with a mixture of roasted vegetables or a plant-based protein. This way, you can cater to various dietary needs while still delivering a mouthwatering pastry that everyone will enjoy.
Make Ahead and Freeze
If you're looking for a quick meal solution, consider making a batch of Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets ahead of time. You can assemble them, freeze them raw, and bake them straight from the freezer whenever you're ready. This is a time-saver for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Just increase the baking time slightly, and you'll have freshly baked pockets in no time.
By preparing these pockets in advance, you can avoid the stress of last-minute cooking. Simply pop them in the oven while you focus on other dinner preparations, ensuring that you'll have a hot and tasty dish ready to serve without any hassle.
Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry Pockets
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup of diced ham
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to keep the puff pastry cold until you're ready to use it for the best results.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, mix the diced ham and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Pockets
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into squares, and place a spoonful of the ham and cheese mixture in the center of each square.
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 touch.
Apply Egg Wash
Brush the tops of the pockets with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake
Place the pockets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Allow the pockets to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Storage Tips
To keep your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best consumed within 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture, rather than using the microwave, which may cause them to become soggy.
If you have a larger batch that you want to keep for longer, consider freezing the baked pockets. To do this, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to three months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets with a variety of dipping sauces to elevate the dining experience. A honey mustard or a tangy barbecue sauce pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the pockets. Alternatively, a creamy ranch dressing or a spicy aioli can add an exciting kick to each bite.
These pockets can also be enjoyed with a simple side salad or some crunchy vegetable sticks. The freshness of a salad will complement the rich and buttery pastry, creating a well-rounded meal that is satisfying and delicious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or provolone.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
→ Can I freeze these pockets?
Absolutely! Freeze them before baking. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What can I serve with these pockets?
They pair well with a simple salad or a side of dipping sauce like mustard or ranch.
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets
Deliciously flaky and filled with savory ham and gooey cheese, these Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are the perfect snack or appetizer.
Created by: Sloane Patterson
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 pockets
What You'll Need
For the Puff Pastry Pockets
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup of diced ham
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix the diced ham and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into squares, and place a spoonful of the ham and cheese mixture in the center of each square.
Fold the pastry over to form a triangle and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Brush the tops of the pockets with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Place the pockets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 10g