Of course! Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are the ultimate easy, impressive, and delicious appetizer or snack. They’re buttery, flaky, and filled with savory goodness. Think of them as a gourmet Hot Pocket!
Here’s a simple yet fantastic recipe that is perfect for parties, brunch, or a quick meal.
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets
These come together in minutes and always feel like a special treat.
Yields: 8-10 pockets
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 15-20 minutes
Ingredients
· 1 sheet (from a 17.3 oz box) frozen puff pastry, thawed
· 1 ½ cups diced ham (about 8 oz)
· 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (a blend of Gruyère and Swiss is classic, or use cheddar, Gouda, or mozzarella)
· 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard
· 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)
· 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon of water (for egg wash)
· Optional Add-ins: 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion sautéed until soft, a pinch of black pepper, or a dash of smoked paprika.
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the diced ham, shredded cheese, mustard, and fresh herbs (if using). Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
- Roll and Cut the Pastry:
· On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet. Roll it out just enough to smooth any creases, creating a roughly 10×10 inch square.
· Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the pastry into 9 or 12 equal squares (3 rows by 3 or 4 rows). - Assemble the Pockets:
· Place a heaping tablespoon of the ham and cheese mixture in the center of each square.
· Brush a light coating of the egg wash around the edges of the square. This acts as the glue.
· Fold one corner over the filling to create a triangle. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal them completely. This step is crucial to prevent leaking! - Bake to Perfection:
· Transfer the sealed pockets to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with the remaining egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown, shiny finish.
· Optional: Use a sharp knife to score a small slit or two on the top of each pocket. This allows steam to escape.
· Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pockets are puffed and deep golden brown. - Serve: Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before serving. They are delicious warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Success
· Thaw Properly: The puff pastry should be thawed but still cold. The best way is to move it from the freezer to the fridge for a few hours before you plan to use it. If it gets too warm and sticky, it becomes difficult to work with.
· Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting, but overfilling is the main cause of leaks. A heaping tablespoon is perfect.
· Seal Tightly: Press firmly with the tines of a fork to create a tight seal. You can also crimp the edges with your fingers for a decorative look.
· Get Creative with Fillings:
· Pizza Pockets: Use diced pepperoni, mozzarella, and a spoonful of pizza sauce.
· Breakfast Pockets: Scrambled eggs, crumbled cooked sausage, and cheddar cheese.
· Vegetarian: Sautéed mushrooms and spinach, well-drained, with goat cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the pockets completely, place them on the baking sheet, and freeze them solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Q: Why did my filling leak out?
A * The pastry was overfilled.
- The edges weren’t sealed properly with egg wash and a firm press.
- The pastry became too warm before baking, making it less able to hold its structure.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven or toaster oven for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy. The microwave will make them soft.
Q: Can I use something other than ham?
A: Absolutely! Diced cooked chicken, turkey, or even crumbled cooked bacon are excellent substitutes.
Enjoy these incredibly easy and crowd-pleasing pockets! They are guaranteed to disappear fast.