If you’re looking for a foolproof recipe that looks impressive yet is simple to make, these easy ham and cheese pastries are about to become your new kitchen favourite.
Golden, buttery puff pastry, baked until perfectly flaky and crisp, shatters gently with the first bite. Tucked inside these warm, savoury pockets is a decadent mix of ham, gooey smoked cheddar, and sweet caramelised onions, blending into a rich, heavenly indulgence. YUM!
Ham and cheese pastries are one of the easiest recipes to make, and they taste amazing. They’re a perfect way to use up leftover Christmas ham, and most people already have some pastry on hand. Puff pastry is considered a life saver because it is versatile, instant and a high-quality shortcut that turns simple ingredients into impressive, flaky meals or snacks in minutes. You can transform basic leftovers into a gourmet meal, making it a perfect solution for unexpected guests or a quick weeknight dinner.
These pastries are great to prep early and bake later. Make the day before, arrange them on a baking tray, and refrigerate. On the day you want to serve, pop them into the oven, egg wash and bake for 15 minutes.
How to make Ham and Cheese Pastries
Place one tablespoon of caramelised onions in the centre of the puff pastry, top with 20 grams of chopped ham and 2 tablespoons of grated smoky cheese.
Take one corner of pastry and fold into the centre. Repeat with all four corners as shown in the picture. Brush beaten egg on the pastry and bake for 15 minutes.
Pastries are a treat any time of day. If you enjoyed these ham and cheese pastries, try my other recipes like a tomato tart with puff pastry, or for something sweeter, Nutella pastry twists that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Did you like these ham and cheese pastries, feel free to leave a comment—I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Easy Ham and Cheese Pastries
If you’re looking for a foolproof recipe that looks impressive yet is simple to make, these easy ham and cheese pastries are about to become your new kitchen favourite.
8
servings10
minutes15
minutes25
minutesIngredients
2 sheets puff pastry
8 tbsp caramelised onions
160 g ham, chopped
160 g smoked cheese, grated
1 egg, beaten
Directions
- Prep the Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 220°C. Line a large baking pan with baking paper so the pastries don't stick.
- Cut the Pastry: Lay your 2 sheets of puff pastry flat. Divide each sheet into 4 even squares (you will have 8 squares total).
- Add the Filling: Spoon 1 tablespoon of caramelised onion into the center of each square. Add 20g of chopped ham (or 2 slices) directly on top of the onion. Top the ham with 2 tablespoons (about 20g) of grated smoked cheese.
- Fold the Parcels: Take one corner of the pastry square and fold it firmly into the center. Bring the remaining 3 corners to the center as well, so all four points meet and overlap in the middle.
- Egg Wash: Lightly beat your egg in a small bowl. Use a pastry brush to coat the tops of the folded pastry parcels with the egg wash for a golden, flaky finish.
- Bake: Place the pan on the middle rack of your oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
