Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry – Kitchen-by-the-Sea

Introduction

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about crisp, golden pastry filled with layers of succulent ham and gooey melted cheese. Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry from Kitchen-by-the-Sea makes for a show-stopping appetizer or an effortless weeknight dinner. In just a few simple steps, you’ll achieve bakery-worthy bites oozing with savory flavor and appealing enough to please even the pickiest crowd.

This recipe is perfect when you need to impress guests or put together a warm, comforting dish that feels both sophisticated and delightfully simple.

Why Make Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry?

The secret to a perfect ham and cheese pastry lies in its textural contrast: the shattering crunch of puff pastry against a rich, creamy cheese interior, all complemented by salty ham. Even better, this recipe is endlessly customizable—use your favorite cheeses or add herbs for a touch of elegance. Whether you’re looking for an easy brunch recipe, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a satisfying lunch, these morsels deliver every time.

Preparing the Filling

Begin by choosing quality ham—preferably thinly sliced, so the pastry envelopes it smoothly. Combine with shredded Swiss or Gruyère for a robust flavor, or choose milder cheeses for a family-friendly vibe. Enhance the filling with a sprinkle of black pepper or a swath of tangy Dijon mustard.

For chopping cheese or prepping add-ins like sautéed onions or spinach, a trusty Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper streamlines your prep, ensuring uniformly sized pieces for even baking.

Handling and Assembling Puff Pastry

Working with store-bought puff pastry keeps things simple. Thaw it in advance, then gently roll each sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut into even squares or rectangles for consistent baking.

Prevent sticking and guarantee crispy bottoms by lining your baking sheet with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll. Lay down a slice or dollop of your prepared filling, fold the pastry over, and crimp or seal the edges.

Perfect Baking Made Easy

If you’re short on oven space or craving a hands-off approach, these pastries bake beautifully in a modern air fryer. The COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt achieves gorgeously golden, crisp results in less time, making it a handy tool for busy kitchens. For traditional oven baking, a parchment-lined tray works wonders as well.

Brush the tops with an egg wash before baking for that gourmet golden sheen.

How to Serve Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry

Serve these pastries warm, straight from the oven or air fryer, with a side salad or a light soup. For perfect lunchtime storage or portable snacking, the Bentgo Salad Container is excellent for transporting individual servings while keeping salads crisp and fresh.

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color and a burst of flavor, or offer mustard and pickles on the side for extra tang.

Nutritional Information and Yield

This recipe serves 6–8, depending on portion size. Each puff pastry parcel contains approximately 270–320 calories, varying with cheese and ham types. Packed with protein and a touch of indulgence, these treats are best enjoyed fresh from the oven.

Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Recap

Ham & Cheese Puff Pastries—Kitchen-by-the-Sea style—are the ultimate in comfort food with a gourmet twist. Flaky, savory, and endlessly adaptable, they’re bound to become a staple for entertaining and everyday meals alike.

Ingredients
1 package frozen puff pastry sheets (2 sheets), thawed
8 oz thinly sliced ham (deli-style or leftover roast)
1 ½ cups shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Black pepper, to taste
1 large egg, beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F, or preheat your COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt to 375°F. Line a baking tray with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for effortless cleanup.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets into slightly larger rectangles. Cut each sheet into 6 or 8 squares, depending on your desired size.
3. Spread a dab of Dijon mustard onto each square if using. Top with a layer of ham and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Add a dash of black pepper.
4. Fold each pastry square over the filling (to form a rectangle or triangle) and crimp the edges with a fork to seal. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
5. Arrange pastries on the prepared tray or place directly into the air fryer basket. Bake in the oven for 15–18 minutes, or in the air fryer for 10–12 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.
6. Remove and let cool slightly before serving for best cheese texture. Pack leftovers in a Bentgo Salad Container for easy grab-and-go meals.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15–18 minutes (oven), or 10–12 minutes (air fryer)

Total Time: 30–33 minutes

Enjoy these ham & cheese puff pastries warm, melty, and golden—the ultimate comfort food that’s always a hit!