Description
Cheesy Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Rolls
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
1 cup diced ham
1 cup shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pastry:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions:
Prepare the Filling:
In a bowl, mix diced ham, shredded cheese, garlic powder, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Assemble the Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into squares or rectangles, depending on your desired size.
Spoon the filling onto one half of each square, then fold the pastry over and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
Add the Topping:
Place the filled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Bake:
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve:
Let the pastries cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve warm.
Serving Suggestion: These cheesy ham puff pastries are perfect as appetizers, snacks, or even a light breakfast. Pair with a fresh salad or dipping sauce for a complete meal.
Enjoy these flaky, savory treats filled with gooey cheese and ham!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Thaw one sheet of puff pastry according to package instructions, typically about 30-40 minutes at room temperature. 2. While the pastry thaws, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 3. In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine 1 cup diced ham, 1 cup shredded cheese, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp Dijon mustard (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. 4. On a lightly floured surface, gently roll the thawed pastry sheet to smooth any seams. Cut it into 9 equal squares. 5. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the ham and cheese mixture onto one half of each square, leaving a small border. 6. Fold the empty half of the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle. Crimp the edges firmly with a fork to seal. 7. Transfer the pastries to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops generously with the beaten egg wash. For extra flavor, sprinkle with optional grated Parmesan. 8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until deeply golden and puffed. Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile rolls are perfect for any occasion. Serve them as a warm appetizer with a side of honey mustard, marinara, or garlic aioli for dipping. For a light lunch or brunch, pair them with a simple green salad or a cup of tomato soup. They also make an excellent addition to a holiday or game-day snack board alongside other finger foods. To elevate a breakfast spread, serve them with fresh fruit and a dollop of fruit preserves for a sweet and savory contrast.
How-to Summary
Thaw and roll out puff pastry. Mix diced ham, shredded cheese, and seasonings for the filling. Cut the pastry into squares, add filling, fold, and seal edges with a fork. Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with optional Parmesan, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the rolls, place them on the baking sheet, and freeze them solid before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What are good cheese substitutes? Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack are excellent alternatives to Swiss or cheddar. A blend of cheeses also works wonderfully.
Can I use other meats? Absolutely. Cooked and crumbled bacon, diced cooked chicken, or even seasoned ground sausage are great replacements for the ham.
Why didn’t my pastry puff properly? The oven may not have been hot enough, or the pastry was over-handled, causing the butter to melt before baking. Ensure your pastry is cold when it goes into a fully preheated oven.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled pastries 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. The microwave will make them soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using puff pastry that is too warm or over-handling it, which prevents a flaky, layered rise.
- Overfilling the pastries, which can cause them to burst open during baking and leak cheese.
- Not sealing the edges properly with a fork, leading to filling spillage.
- Skipping the egg wash, which gives the rolls their attractive golden-brown shine.
- Placing unbaked pastries on a warm baking sheet, which can start melting the butter in the pastry.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Rolls are a quintessential example of simple ingredients creating an impressive and delicious result. With a flaky, buttery crust and a savory, melty filling, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this easy recipe. Perfect for entertaining or a quick family treat, these versatile rolls are sure to become a regular in your culinary repertoire.