Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets 🥐🧀

Flaky, golden puff pastry filled with savory ham and melted cheese—an easy breakfast, brunch, snack, or light dinner recipe that feels bakery-style but takes little effort.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 18–22 minutes
Total Time: About 45 minutes
Servings: 8 pockets

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Ingredients

• 1 package (17.3 oz / 490 g) frozen puff pastry, thawed (2 sheets)
• 1½ cups diced ham (cooked ham, smoked ham, or leftover holiday ham)
• 1½ cups shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, Gruyère, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

1. In a bowl, combine:
   • Diced ham
   • Shredded cheese
   • Cream cheese (if using)
   • Dijon mustard
   • Herbs
   • Black pepper

Mix until evenly combined.

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2. Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Lightly roll out each puff pastry sheet.
4. Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares (8 squares total).

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3. Fill the Pockets

1. Place a spoonful of ham and cheese filling in the center of each square.
2. Fold pastry over diagonally to form triangles, or fold into rectangles.
3. Press edges with a fork to seal.
4. Place pockets on the baking sheet.

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4. Add Egg Wash

1. Beat egg with water.
2. Brush over each pastry pocket.
3. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds if desired.

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5. Bake

• Bake for 18–22 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.
• Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

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Serving Ideas

Serve with:

• Fresh fruit
• Green salad
• Tomato soup
• Scrambled eggs
• Pickles or mustard dipping sauce

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Variations

Breakfast Version

Add:

• Scrambled eggs
• Crispy bacon
• Green onions

Spicy Ham & Cheese

Add:

• Jalapeños
• Pepper jack cheese
• Hot sauce

Italian Style

Add:

• Prosciutto
• Mozzarella
• Basil
• A little marinara for dipping

Low-Carb Alternative

Use a low-carb dough or make a ham-and-cheese egg muffin style filling instead of puff pastry.

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Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked or baked pockets for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to restore crispness.

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Approximate Nutrition (Per Pocket)

• Calories: 330
• Protein: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 620 mg

Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry Pockets

• Keep puff pastry cold while working for the flakiest layers.
• Do not overfill—the filling can leak as the pastry expands.
• Seal edges firmly and chill assembled pockets for 10 minutes before baking for a better rise.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt.