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Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry: Easy Recipe & Baking Tips


  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 24 squares 1x

Description

Flaky puff pastry filled with ham, Gruyere, and Swiss cheeses, seasoned with thyme and garlic. Great as an appetizer, snack, or light meal!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package (14.1 ounces) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
  • 8 ounces thinly sliced ham
  • 6 ounces Gruyere cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces Swiss cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon milk or cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • Optional: Everything bagel seasoning for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare: Lightly flour a clean, flat surface.
  2. Unfold: Gently unfold one sheet of puff pastry onto the floured surface. Let sit if stiff.
  3. Roll: Gently roll the puff pastry sheet into a slightly larger rectangle, about 12×10 inches.
  4. Mustard: Evenly spread the Dijon mustard over the entire surface, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
  5. Ham: Arrange the thinly sliced ham evenly over the mustard-covered puff pastry.
  6. Cheese: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded Gruyere and Swiss cheeses.
  7. Sprinkle: Generously sprinkle the combined cheese mixture over the ham layer.
  8. Season: Sprinkle the dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the cheese layer.
  9. Repeat: Repeat steps 2-8 with the second sheet of puff pastry.
  10. Top: Carefully lift the second puff pastry sheet and place it on top of the first. Align the edges.
  11. Seal: Gently press the edges of the two puff pastry sheets together to seal them. Crimp with a fork.
  12. Cut: Cut the assembled puff pastry into your desired shapes (e.g., 2-inch squares).
  13. Arrange: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Transfer the cut puff pastry pieces onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
  14. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk or cream.
  15. Brush: Gently brush the tops of the puff pastry pieces with the egg wash.
  16. Optional Topping: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning, if desired.
  17. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
  18. Cool: Let the puff pastry cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving.

Notes

  • Cheese Variations: Provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar can be substituted.
  • Ham Variations: Turkey, roast beef, or salami can be substituted.
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit ham and add sautéed vegetables.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with rosemary, oregano, or basil.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble ahead and refrigerate, covered tightly.
  • Freezing: Baked pastries can be frozen. Cool, wrap individually, and freeze. Reheat at 350°F (175°C).
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.
  • Dipping Sauces: Serve with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes