Description
These Crispy Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares are the perfect little pockets of savory goodness. Imagine flaky, buttery puff pastry encasing a warm, gooey filling of diced ham, melted cheddar cheese, and a hint of Dijon mustard for that extra zing. Sprinkled with dried oregano, these squares offer a delightful aroma and a burst of flavor in every bite. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying breakfast, an easy appetizer for a gathering, or a comforting snack to enjoy any time of day, these puff pastry squares are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of textures, from the crispy pastry to the soft, melted filling, is simply irresistible. These squares are also highly customizable, allowing you to adapt the filling to your personal preferences and dietary needs. So, get ready to indulge in these delightful treats that are both simple to prepare and exceptionally delicious!
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll absolutely adore this recipe for Crispy Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares for so many reasons. First and foremost, it’s unbelievably easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple method, you can whip up these delectable squares in no time. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings when you need a quick and impressive snack.
Secondly, the flavor combination is simply divine. The salty, savory ham pairs perfectly with the sharp, creamy cheddar cheese, while the Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that elevates the entire filling. The dried oregano brings a touch of herbaceousness that ties everything together beautifully.
Thirdly, the texture is utterly addictive. The flaky, crispy puff pastry provides a satisfying crunch, while the warm, melted filling is soft and gooey. This contrast of textures creates a truly enjoyable eating experience.
Fourthly, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the filling to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Swap out the ham for turkey or prosciutto, use different types of cheese like Gruyere or Swiss, or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Finally, these puff pastry squares are always a hit with both kids and adults. They’re perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and they make a great appetizer for parties or potlucks. Everyone loves the combination of flavors and textures, and they’re sure to disappear quickly!
In summary, you’ll love this recipe because it’s easy, flavorful, versatile, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your cravings for something savory and comforting, all while impressing your friends and family with your culinary skills.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup of diced ham
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the puff pastry will rise properly and become golden brown and crispy. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the pastry squares inside.
Step 2: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases. Thawing the puff pastry is crucial for easy handling. A lightly floured surface prevents the pastry from sticking, allowing you to roll it out evenly and smoothly. This step is important for achieving uniform squares that bake evenly.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, mix together the diced ham, shredded cheese, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. This is where the magic happens! Ensure the ingredients are thoroughly mixed to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the filling. Adjust the seasoning to your liking; a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
Step 4: Cut the puff pastry into 3-inch squares. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter for clean, even cuts. Consistent sizing ensures that each square bakes at the same rate. You can adjust the size of the squares to your preference, but keep in mind that smaller squares will bake faster.
Step 5: Place a heaping tablespoon of the ham and cheese mixture in the center of each square. Be generous with the filling, but avoid overfilling, as this can make it difficult to seal the squares properly. The filling should be contained within the center of each square to prevent it from spilling out during baking.
Step 6: Brush the edges of each square with the beaten egg. This step is essential for creating a golden-brown color and a glossy finish. The egg wash also acts as a sealant, helping to keep the squares closed during baking. Be sure to brush all the edges thoroughly for the best results.
Step 7: Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling, pressing down gently to seal. This creates a triangular shape. Ensure a tight seal to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. You can use a fork to press down the edges for an extra secure seal and a decorative touch.
Step 8: Place the squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents the squares from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup. Arrange the squares evenly on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow for proper air circulation.
Step 9: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on the squares during baking to prevent them from burning. The baking time may vary depending on your oven. The puff pastry should be puffed up and golden brown, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these Crispy Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares warm as a delicious breakfast, brunch, or snack.
- Pair them with a side salad for a light lunch or dinner.
- Serve them as appetizers at your next party or gathering.
- Accompany them with a dipping sauce like honey mustard or ranch dressing.
- Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting treat.
Tips:
- Make sure your puff pastry is properly thawed before using it.
- Don’t overfill the squares, as this can make them difficult to seal.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean cuts.
- Brush the edges of the squares with egg wash for a golden-brown color.
- Press the edges firmly to seal the squares properly.
- Bake the squares until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Let the squares cool slightly before serving.
- Experiment with different cheeses and meats to customize the flavor. Gruyere, Swiss, or provolone cheeses are great options. Consider adding cooked bacon, sausage, or even vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the filling.
- For a sweeter twist, add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the ham and cheese mixture.
- These squares can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving for the best results.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
15-20 minutes
Total Time:
30-35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per square, may vary based on specific ingredients used)
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 10-15g
- Sodium: 300-400mg
Conclusion
These Crispy Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares are a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can create a satisfying and flavorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of flaky puff pastry, savory ham, and melted cheese is simply irresistible, and the recipe is versatile enough to be customized to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, an easy appetizer, or a comforting snack, these puff pastry squares are sure to hit the spot. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy the delightful crunch, the warm, gooey filling, and the smiles you’ll bring to everyone who tastes them.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
Q1: Can I use frozen puff pastry sheets that are already pre-cut into squares?
A1: Absolutely! Using pre-cut puff pastry squares can save you even more time and effort. Just make sure to thaw them properly before assembling the ham and cheese filling. Follow the same instructions for filling, sealing, and baking. Keep in mind that the baking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the pre-cut squares.
Q2: I don’t have cheddar cheese on hand. Can I substitute it with another type of cheese?
A2: Definitely! One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily substitute cheddar cheese with other types of cheese like Gruyere, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of different cheeses. Each type of cheese will bring its own unique flavor to the squares. For example, Gruyere will add a nutty, slightly sweet taste, while Swiss will provide a milder, slightly tangy flavor.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to the filling to make these squares healthier?
A3: Of course! Adding vegetables to the filling is a great way to boost the nutritional value of these puff pastry squares. Some excellent choices include finely chopped spinach, sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or caramelized onions. Just make sure to cook any vegetables beforehand to remove excess moisture and prevent the filling from becoming soggy. Add the cooked vegetables to the ham and cheese mixture before filling the pastry squares.
Q4: Can I make these puff pastry squares ahead of time and bake them later?
A4: Yes, you can prepare these squares ahead of time. Assemble the squares as directed in the recipe, but don’t bake them. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake the squares as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary.
Q5: I’m looking for a vegetarian version of this recipe. What can I use instead of ham?
A5: To create a vegetarian version of these puff pastry squares, you can substitute the ham with various ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, cooked spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even crumbled tofu or tempeh. These alternatives will provide a savory and satisfying filling that complements the cheese and puff pastry. You can also add some herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor.
