Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets!

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets Recipe

These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are an irresistible combination of flaky pastry, melted cheese, and savory ham, perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. The best part? They’re quick and easy to make but look and taste like something you’d order at a bakery.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought, thawed if frozen)

• 6-8 slices ham (thinly sliced, preferably deli-style or leftover ham)

• 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or a mix of both)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

• Salt and pepper (to taste)

• Fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley or thyme, for garnish)

• Olive oil or butter (for greasing the baking sheet)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or olive oil.

2. Prepare Puff Pastry:

• Roll out the sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If it’s already square, you can cut it into 4 equal rectangles. If it’s rectangular, cut it into 4 squares (or more if you want smaller pockets).

• Gently score a border about 1 inch from the edges of each square, but don’t cut all the way through. This will create a nice, puffy border once baked.

3. Assemble the Pockets:

• Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (optional) on the center of each puff pastry square.

• Place 1-2 slices of ham on top of the mustard.

• Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the ham.

• Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and then fold the pastry over to create a triangle or rectangle, depending on your cut.

• Press the edges together with a fork to seal the pockets well.

4. Egg Wash:

• Brush the tops of each pocket with the beaten egg to give them a nice golden color when baked.

5. Bake:

• Place the stuffed pockets on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.

• Keep an eye on them toward the end to prevent burning.

6. Serve:

• Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

• Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor and a pop of color.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t overstuff the pockets!: If you add too much filling, the pastry may not seal properly, and the filling could spill out.

• Use high-quality ham: For the best flavor, use good-quality ham, either deli ham, leftover holiday ham, or a ham steak. Thinly sliced works best.

• Cheese Choices: You can experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or even goat cheese for a unique twist.

• Herb Variations: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives to the filling for an added burst of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q/A)

Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?

A1: Yes! You can assemble the pockets ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just brush with egg wash and bake as directed.

Q2: Can I freeze these?

A2: Absolutely! These pockets freeze beautifully. Assemble them, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q3: Can I use other fillings?

A3: Definitely! You can use turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options like spinach and cheese or roasted vegetables. Just make sure the filling is not too wet, as it could make the pastry soggy.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

A4: Store any leftover ham and cheese puff pastry pockets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispness, or use a toaster oven for a quick fix.

Q5: Can I make them without mustard?

A5: Yes! The mustard is optional. You can skip it or substitute with a small amount of cream cheese or a different sauce for added creaminess.

Serving Suggestions:

• These puff pastry pockets can be served as a snack, appetizer, or paired with a light salad for a full meal.

• You can also serve them with a dipping sauce like marinara, honey mustard, or even a bit of ranch dressing.