Description
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Sliders
Ingredients
2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
8–10 slices deli ham
8 slices Swiss cheese (or mozzarella)
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp butter, melted
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tbsp chopped chives (for garnish)
Directions
Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Assemble the Layers: Roll out the puff pastry sheets slightly. Place one sheet on the prepared baking sheet. Spread Dijon mustard and honey evenly across. Layer ham slices and cheese on top. Cover with the second sheet of puff pastry.
Seal & Brush: Press the edges of the pastry to seal. Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Garnish & Serve: Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with chopped chives, and cut into sliders. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8 sliders
Calories: 320 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep: Thaw puff pastry according to package. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Create Base: Unfold one pastry sheet on the baking sheet. Gently roll it out to smooth any folds.
3. Add Flavor: In a small bowl, mix Dijon mustard and honey. Spread this mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
4. Layer Fillings: Arrange a single layer of ham slices, followed by a layer of Swiss cheese, covering the mustard-honey base.
5. Top & Seal: Place the second pastry sheet on top. Use a fork to firmly press and crimp all edges to seal in the fillings.
6. Egg Wash: Beat one egg with a tablespoon of water. Brush this wash generously over the entire top pastry layer.
7. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the pastry is deeply puffed and golden brown.
8. Finish: Remove from oven. Immediately brush with melted butter and sprinkle with chopped chives. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders are incredibly versatile. Serve them as the star of a game-day spread alongside spicy mustard or a creamy ranch dip. For a brunch, pair with a fresh fruit salad. They also make a fantastic packed lunch—simply wrap individually and enjoy at room temperature. For a heartier meal, serve with a simple green salad or a bowl of tomato soup.
How-to Summary
Thaw puff pastry, then layer one sheet with a honey-Dijon spread, ham, and cheese. Top with the second pastry sheet, seal the edges, and brush with egg wash. Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until golden. Finish with a brush of melted butter and chives before slicing into squares.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders up to the point of adding the egg wash, wrap tightly in plastic, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the egg wash just before baking.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely. Mozzarella, cheddar, Gruyère, or provolone are excellent substitutes for Swiss cheese.
Why is my puff pastry not rising?
This is often due to the pastry being over-handled (warming the butter) or the edges not being sealed properly, allowing steam to escape. Ensure your pastry is cold and edges are crimped well.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven or toaster oven for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I freeze the baked sliders?
Yes. Once fully cooled, freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm puff pastry: It must be cold to ensure flaky layers. Work quickly.
- Overfilling: Too much ham and cheese can prevent proper sealing and cause leaks.
- Skipping the egg wash: This is crucial for that professional, golden-brown shine.
- Cutting immediately after baking: Let it rest for 5 minutes so the cheese sets, making for cleaner slices.
- Not sealing the edges: A poor seal will result in filling bubbling out during baking.
Conclusion
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Sliders are the ultimate combination of simplicity and impressive results. With minimal prep and common ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a golden, flaky pastry wrapped around a savory, cheesy filling every time. They are a guaranteed hit that proves delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated.