Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets

Servings: 6–8 pockets
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 18–22 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

• 6–8 slices ham (chopped or folded)

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss)

• 1 tsp Dijon or yellow mustard (optional)

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Black pepper, to taste

• Sesame seeds or dried herbs (optional topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven

   • Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. Prepare pastry

   • Unfold puff pastry and cut into 6–8 equal squares.

3. Fill pockets

   • Place ham in the center of each square.

   • Sprinkle cheese on top.

   • Add a tiny dab of mustard and black pepper.

4. Seal

   • Fold pastry over to form triangles or rectangles.

   • Press edges with a fork to seal.

5. Brush & top

   • Brush tops with egg wash.

   • Sprinkle sesame seeds or herbs if desired.

6. Bake

   • Bake 18–22 minutes until golden and puffed.

7. Serve

   • Cool slightly and serve warm.

🥗 Nutrition Q/A

Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: Yes! Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Yes—freeze unbaked pockets and bake directly from frozen (add 5–7 minutes).

Q: What cheese works best?
A: Cheddar for sharp flavor, mozzarella for melt, Swiss for classic ham pairing.

⭐ Tips & Tricks

✔ Don’t overfill—prevents leaking
✔ Keep pastry cold for best puff
✔ Seal edges tightly
✔ Serve with honey mustard or marinara

🔄 Variations

• Turkey & Cheese Pockets

• Spinach & Feta (Veggie)

• Pizza Puff Pockets

• WW-Friendly Version (reduced-fat cheese & thin ham)