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 perfect for a quick snack or a delightful appetizer.
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are a delightful way to enjoy your favorite savory flavors. Perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in, these pockets are sure to please everyone!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flaky, buttery pastry that envelops savory ham and melty cheese
- Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
- Versatile filling options to suit your taste
Perfect for Any Occasion
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for parties, game days, or family gatherings. Their flaky texture and savory filling appeal to both adults and children alike, ensuring they'll be a hit no matter the event. You can easily double or triple the recipe to serve a larger group, ensuring no one goes home hungry.
These pockets are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can experiment with different types of cheeses or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the filling for a unique twist. This adaptability allows you to cater to various tastes and dietary preferences, making them a fantastic option for any gathering.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best things about these Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets is how quickly they come together. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious snack ready in no time. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen.
The use of store-bought puff pastry further simplifies the process, allowing you to focus on assembling your pockets rather than making the dough from scratch. This convenience means you can whip up a batch of these tasty treats even on the most hectic days, ensuring that you never have to sacrifice flavor for time.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, given how delicious they are!), storing them is simple. Allow the puff pastry pockets to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For optimal taste and texture, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave, which can make the pastry soggy.
To reheat, place the pockets on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes. This will restore their golden crispness and make them as delightful as when they were first baked. Enjoy them hot, and you might find yourself going back for seconds!
Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry Pockets
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 200g cooked ham, diced
- 150g cheese (cheddar or your choice), shredded
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, combine the diced ham, shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Roll Out the Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth it out. Cut into squares, about 10cm x 10cm.
Assemble the Pockets
Place a tablespoon of the ham and cheese filling in the center of each pastry square. Fold the pastry over to form a triangle and seal the edges with a fork.
Brush with Egg Wash
Brush the tops of each pocket with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
These puff pastry pockets are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!
Customization Ideas
While the classic ham and cheese combination is a favorite, there are countless ways to customize these puff pastry pockets to suit your palate. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. Alternatively, for a spicy kick, mix in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce with your filling.
You can also switch up the type of meat; turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option using mushrooms or roasted vegetables can create new flavors. The flexibility of this recipe means you can cater to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious bite.
Serving Suggestions
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are delicious on their own, but serving them with a side can elevate your snack experience. Pair them with a light salad for a more balanced meal, or enjoy them with a tangy dipping sauce like mustard or a zesty ranch dressing for added flavor.
For a fun appetizer platter, arrange the pockets alongside fresh veggies and a variety of dips. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides guests with options to mix and match flavors, making your gathering even more enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these pockets ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pockets, then freeze them before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can use mozzarella, Swiss, or any cheese that melts well.
→ Can I use different fillings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different meats, cheeses, or even vegetables.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets
Deliciously flaky and filled with savory ham and gooey cheese, these Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are perfect for a quick snack or a delightful appetizer.
Created by: Poppy Walsh
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
- 200g cooked ham, diced
- 150g cheese (cheddar or your choice), shredded
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine the diced ham, shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth it out. Cut into squares, about 10cm x 10cm.
Place a tablespoon of the ham and cheese filling in the center of each pastry square. Fold the pastry over to form a triangle and seal the edges with a fork.
Brush the tops of each pocket with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g