Introduction: Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are the ultimate savory snack that’s crispy on the outside and oozy on the inside. These golden, flaky pockets are filled with a delicious combination of ham, cheese, and a touch of mustard or other condiments for extra flavor. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as an appetizer, these pockets are quick to make and sure to satisfy everyone!
Ingredients:
1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), thawed if frozen
1 cup cooked ham, chopped into small pieces
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or a mix of both)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or honey mustard (optional)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs like parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If using a pre-rolled sheet, simply unfold it. Cut the pastry into squares (about 4-6 pieces, depending on the size of the pockets you want to make).
Assemble the Pockets: On one half of each puff pastry square, add a tablespoon of chopped ham and a tablespoon of shredded cheese. Drizzle a little mustard if using. Fold the pastry over to form a triangle or rectangle, enclosing the filling. Press the edges together to seal the pockets, and use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.
Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pockets with the beaten egg. This will give them a golden, shiny finish as they bake.
Bake: Place the pockets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and allow the pockets to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, then serve warm.
Description:
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are a delightful combination of flaky pastry, savory ham, and melted cheese. These pockets are incredibly versatile and easy to make, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The golden, crispy exterior encases a warm, gooey cheese and ham filling, making them an irresistible snack or meal. Whether served as a quick lunch or a party appetizer, these puff pastry pockets are guaranteed to be a hit!
Tips:
Puff Pastry: Make sure your puff pastry is cold when you work with it to ensure it puffs up properly when baking.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheese types, such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or provolone, for a different flavor profile.
Make-Ahead: You can assemble the pockets ahead of time, cover them, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
Extra Fillings: Add some sautéed onions, spinach, or mushrooms for a more complex flavor. You can also swap the ham for turkey or bacon for variety.
Air Fryer Option: If you prefer, these pockets can be made in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes for an even crispier result.
Variations:
Vegetarian Puff Pastry Pockets: Use spinach, mushrooms, and cheese for a meat-free option.
Chicken and Cheese Pockets: Swap the ham for cooked, shredded chicken for a heartier version.
Spicy Ham and Cheese Pockets: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
Breakfast Pockets: Add scrambled eggs to the filling for a delicious breakfast treat.
Corrections:
Ensure that the puff pastry is fully sealed before baking. If any filling escapes, it may cause the pastry to burn or become soggy.
Don’t overstuff the pockets, as this can make them difficult to seal properly and result in leaks during baking.
Make sure to brush the tops of the pockets with enough egg wash to get that golden color, but don’t overdo it to avoid excess egg dripping onto the baking sheet.
Enjoy:
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are a simple yet delicious treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the crispy, savory goodness with every bite!