Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets
Highlighted under: Basic Quick Meals Collection
Deliciously flaky and filled with savory ham and melted cheese, these Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are perfect for a quick snack or a satisfying meal.
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are a delightful treat that combine the flaky goodness of puff pastry with the savory flavors of ham and cheese. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, they are sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flaky and buttery pastry that melts in your mouth
- Savory filling of ham and cheese for a satisfying bite
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
Perfect for Any Occasion
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together, preparing a quick after-school snack for the kids, or looking for a tasty appetizer for a party, these pockets fit the bill perfectly. Their delightful combination of flaky pastry and savory filling will have everyone coming back for seconds.
These pockets are also ideal for meal prep. You can make a batch in advance, freeze them, and bake them straight from the freezer when you're in the mood for a quick and satisfying meal. This convenience makes them a go-to option for busy families and individuals alike.
Customizable Fillings
One of the best aspects of Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets is their adaptability. While the classic ham and cheese combination is undeniably delicious, you can easily customize the filling to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost, or swap the ham for turkey or chicken for a different flavor profile.
For cheese lovers, experimenting with different types of cheese can elevate your pockets even further. From gooey mozzarella to sharp provolone, the options are endless. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make these pockets your own!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving these delightful Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets, the possibilities are numerous. They pair beautifully with a light salad for a complete meal or can be served with a side of dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch dressing. These pockets are also great for game day, served alongside chips or a veggie platter to satisfy all your guests' cravings.
For a fun twist, consider offering a variety of dipping sauces to complement the flavors of your pockets. This adds an interactive element to your meal, allowing everyone to customize their dining experience!
Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry Pockets
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of cheese (cheddar or swiss)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a floured surface. Cut it into 4 equal squares.
Fill the Pastry Squares
Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese in the center of each square. Season with salt and pepper.
Fold and Seal
Fold the pastry over to create a pocket and press the edges with a fork to seal.
Apply Egg Wash
Brush the tops of the pockets with the beaten egg to give them a golden color.
Bake
Place the pockets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets!
These pockets are best served warm. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, try adding some mustard or herbs to the filling.
Storing and Freezing
To store your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy.
If you’d like to freeze your pockets for later, it's best to do so before baking. Assemble the pockets, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to bake, no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time, and you'll have fresh, hot pockets in no time!
Nutritional Information
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets make for a satisfying snack or meal, but it's important to be mindful of their nutritional content. Each pocket offers a good balance of protein from the ham and cheese, alongside carbohydrates from the puff pastry. This combination can provide a quick energy boost, making them suitable for active individuals.
For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat puff pastry or incorporating more vegetables into the filling. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or opt for lower-fat varieties to keep the indulgence in check while still enjoying these delicious treats.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other fillings?
Absolutely! You can use chicken, vegetables, or any cheese of your choice.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze these pockets?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
→ What can I serve with these pockets?
They pair well with a fresh salad or some dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue.
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets
Deliciously flaky and filled with savory ham and melted cheese, these Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are perfect for a quick snack or a satisfying meal.
Created by: Marlowe Sinclair
Recipe Type: Basic Quick Meals Collection
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 pockets
What You'll Need
For the Puff Pastry Pockets
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of 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). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a floured surface. Cut it into 4 equal squares.
Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese in the center of each square. Season with salt and pepper.
Fold the pastry over to create a pocket and press the edges with a fork to seal.
Brush the tops of the pockets with the beaten egg to give them a golden color.
Place the pockets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, try adding some mustard or herbs to the filling.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 10g