These ham and cheese puff pastries are flaky, irresistible, and everything you want in an appetizer or breakfast. Plus, you only need six ingredients to make them!
The first time I tested this recipe, I was reminded of my travels across Europe. Something about the flaky puff pastry, warm ham and cheese, and grab-and-go style of these pastries feels so familiar. If you know me, you know that simple, approachable recipes are my philosophy because I’m always on the move. These ham and cheese pastries fit into my lifestyle perfectly! They are ideal for a quick snack when I’m in a rush, and they couldn’t be easier to make. I also love how many I can make at once and how delicious they taste when reheated.
Love ham and cheese? Check out our ham and cheese quiche and ham and cheese sliders for more delicious variations on this classic combo.
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastries Video
How To Make Ham and Cheese Puff Pastries
Only 30 minutes for a dish that everyone will rave about? Sign me up! Follow these simple steps, and you’re already halfway there.
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll and cut the puff pastry: Roll out the defrosted puff pastry into a 12×12-inch square. Cut it into nine equal squares.
- Layer on the fillings: Spread a bit of Dijon mustard in the center of each square, then layer on a slice of ham and half a slice of cheese.
- Assemble the pastries: Fold one corner of the pastry in towards the center, then stretch the opposite corner over and underneath the pastry to seal. Brush the egg wash over the pastries and sprinkle the top.
- Bake the pastries: Place the pastries on the baking sheet and bake them for 15-20 minutes, or until they have puffed and turned golden.
Hot tip: Elevate your pastries with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning.
Tips From the Kitchen
For a foolproof puff and swoon-worthy flavors, keep these tips in mind. Who said puff pastry had to be complicated??
- Make your own puff pastry (optional). I promise it’s easier than it sounds — and it’s SO worth it. Follow this recipe, and it’ll be a breeze.
- Keep the puff pastry cold. For the flakiest pastries, work quickly to prevent the fat in the dough from melting.
- Use your favorite cheese. The cheese is an important factor in creating the flavor, so choose wisely! I love Swiss, Fontina, Gouda, or Gruyère cheese. Shredded or sliced cheese works.
- Get creative with fillings. Why not add a bite of caramelized onions? If you’re looking for more veggies, sneak in spinach, arugula, roasted red peppers, or roasted asparagus. For more protein, add cooked bacon or cooked and shredded chicken.
Make Ahead
Stock your freezer with ham and cheese pastries, and you’ll always have a quick snack on hand. Place the assembled pastries (before they’re baked) on a lined baking sheet and freeze until they are solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and freeze them for up to three months! When you’re ready to dig in, bake the pastries straight from frozen according to the recipe instructions. They may need a few extra minutes to bake.
Storing & Reheating Baked Pastries
Did I mention how amazing the leftovers of these ham and cheese pastries are? Store them for days or months, and reheat them quickly whenever the craving hits!
- Refrigerator: To store baked ham and cheese pastries for up to three days, allow them to cool, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Freezer: Freeze baked (and cooled) ham and cheese pastries for up to three months in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: For the best crisp, reheat the pastries in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for about five minutes, or until they are warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave.
More Tasty Appetizers
- Shrimp Spring Rolls — Super refreshing and crunchy
- Baked Brie in Puff Pastry — Perfectly melty and spreadable
- Eggplant Rings — Roasted eggplant topped with garlic mayo, tomatoes, and herbs
- Steak Bruschetta — Everything you love about bruschetta with added protein
Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 puff pastry sheet defrosted according to instructions
- 9 oz ham thinly sliced
- 3 oz sharp cheddar thinly sliced
- 2 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Everything Bagel Seasoning
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly roll out the defrosted puff pastry into a 12×12-inch square. Cut it into 9 equal squares (each about 4×4 inches).
- Spread a bit of Dijon mustard in the center of each pastry square.
- Place a slice of ham (rolled or folded) diagonally on each pastry square. Lay half a slice of cheddar cheese on top of the ham.
- Take one corner of the pastry and fold it over the filling toward the center. Then fold the opposite corner over, slightly stretching the dough over until it tucks underneath the pastry, you may have to pinch to seal it.
- In a small bowl, beat the egg and water together. Brush the folded pastries with the egg wash.
- Sprinkle the tops with Everything Bagel Seasoning. Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.
- Let the pastries cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
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