I absolutely love making Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Melts! This recipe combines the irresistible flavors of salty ham and gooey cheese, all encased in a flaky and buttery puff pastry. The contrast of textures is simply divine, with the crispy exterior giving way to the melty cheese and tender ham inside.

These melts are perfect for a quick and delicious lunch or snack. Plus, they are incredibly versatile – you can add other ingredients like caramelized onions, spinach, or even a dollop of mustard for an extra kick. Trust me, once you try these Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Melts, you won’t be able to resist having them over and over again!

Ingredients Needed for This Recipe

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (usually about 250g or 8.8 oz)
150g (5.3 oz) sliced ham, ideally high quality for better flavor
100g (3.5 oz) cheese, grated or sliced (Swiss, cheddar, or any preferred melting cheese works well)

1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
Mustard or mayonnaise (optional, for spreading)

Salt and pepper, to taste
A handful of fresh arugula or spinach (optional, for serving)

Instructions for Making Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Melt

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Prepare the puff pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle of about ¼ inch thickness. If your puff pastry comes in a block, you may need to roll it out to these dimensions. Cut the rectangle into four equal squares.
Add the fillings: Spread a thin layer of mustard or mayonnaise on each square, if using. Place slices of ham and cheese on one half of each square, leaving a small border around the edges. Season with a little salt and pepper.
Form the melts: Fold the other half of the puff pastry over the ham and cheese to form a rectangle or triangle (depending on your preference). Press the edges to seal, then use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring the filling stays inside while baking.

Egg wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg with the tablespoon of milk. Brush the top of each puff pastry melt with this egg wash, which will help achieve a golden, crispy top.
Bake: Place the prepared melts on the lined baking tray. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
Serve: Let the melts cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be served alone or with a side of fresh arugula or spinach for a refreshing contrast to the rich, warm melt.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

Choosing the Right Ingredients: The quality of your puff pastry can make or break this dish. Opt for all-butter puff pastry for its rich flavor and superior flakiness. When it comes to ham and cheese, choose varieties that you enjoy. A good quality cooked ham and a flavorful cheese that melts well, such as Gruyère, cheddar, or mozzarella, can elevate this simple dish into something special.

Rolling Out the Puff Pastry: Thaw the puff pastry according to package instructions, usually overnight in the refrigerator or for about 40 minutes at room temperature. Be sure not to let it sit out too long, as warm pastry can be difficult to handle and may not puff as well. Lightly flour your surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking without adding too much extra flour, which can toughen the dough.

Sealing the Edges: To ensure the filling stays inside the pastry while it bakes, it’s crucial to seal the edges properly. After folding the pastry over the filling, press down firmly with your fingers, then crimp with a fork for extra security. This step also adds a decorative touch to your melts.

Egg Wash: The egg wash not only gives the pastry a beautiful golden sheen but also helps to seal any edges. For a richer color, use just the yolk mixed with a bit of milk or water. For a lighter finish, an egg white or a whole egg can be used.

Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly preheated before baking. Puff pastry needs a high temperature to ‘puff’ properly, creating its signature flaky layers. Placing the melts into a cold oven or one that hasn’t reached the right temperature can result in soggy pastry.

Cooling: Allow the puff pastry melts to cool for a few minutes after baking. This resting time helps the cheese set slightly, making the melts easier to handle and eat. However, they are best served warm, when the cheese is still gooey and the pastry is at its flakiest.

Serving Suggestions

On Their Own: These ham and cheese puff pastry melts are a satisfying snack or light meal on their own, thanks to the rich, buttery pastry and the hearty filling. They’re perfect for a quick lunch or an easy weekend brunch.

With a Side Salad: For a more balanced meal, serve the melts with a side of green salad. A simple salad with mixed greens, some cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pastry well.

Soup Pairing: Pairing these melts with a bowl of soup can turn your meal into a comforting feast, ideal for colder days. Tomato soup is a classic choice, but a creamy vegetable or a light chicken broth would also pair beautifully.

Breakfast Option: Transform these melts into a breakfast item by adding a fried or poached egg on top. The runny yolk adds a delicious richness that works well with the ham and cheese.

Storage Tips

Refrigerating: If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to keep them from drying out.

Freezing: For longer storage, these melts can be frozen either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the melts but skip the egg wash. Freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Add the egg wash just before baking, without the need to thaw. For already baked melts, cool them completely before freezing and reheat in the oven to restore the pastry’s crispiness.

Reheating: To maintain the texture, reheat leftovers in the oven or a toaster oven at 180°C (350°F) until they’re heated through and the pastry is crispy again. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the pastry soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different fillings? Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. Try using different meats like turkey or roast beef, or add some vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or caramelized onions for added flavor and nutrition.

What if I don’t have an egg for the egg wash? If you’re out of eggs, you can use milk or cream to brush the tops of the pastry. This will still help achieve a golden color, though it might not be as shiny as with an egg wash.

Can I make these vegetarian? Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the ham with slices of roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. You can also add pesto or a spread of your choice for extra flavor.

How do I know when the puff pastry is done? The pastry should be puffed and golden brown when done. It’s also a good idea to lift one of the melts with a spatula to check the bottom, which should be golden and crispy, indicating it’s fully baked.

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the melts ahead of time and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. This can be a great time-saver when planning for guests or preparing for a busy week.

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Melt

5 from 1 vote

This Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Melt recipe offers a delightful and easy-to-make option for those looking for a speedy meal. Ideal for a light dinner, a savory snack, or a quick lunch, it marries the creamy, robust flavors of cheese and ham with the delicate, buttery layers of puff pastry.

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry thawed (usually about 250g or 8.8 oz)
150 g 5.3 oz sliced ham, ideally high quality for better flavor
100 g 3.5 oz cheese, grated or sliced (Swiss, cheddar, or any preferred melting cheese works well)
1 egg lightly beaten (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon milk for egg wash
Mustard or mayonnaise optional, for spreading
Salt and pepper to taste

A handful of fresh arugula or spinach optional, for serving

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Prepare the puff pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle of about ¼ inch thickness. If your puff pastry comes in a block, you may need to roll it out to these dimensions. Cut the rectangle into four equal squares.

Add the fillings: Spread a thin layer of mustard or mayonnaise on each square, if using. Place slices of ham and cheese on one half of each square, leaving a small border around the edges. Season with a little salt and pepper.
Form the melts: Fold the other half of the puff pastry over the ham and cheese to form a rectangle or triangle (depending on your preference). Press the edges to seal, then use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring the filling stays inside while baking.
Egg wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg with the tablespoon of milk. Brush the top of each puff pastry melt with this egg wash, which will help achieve a golden, crispy top.

Bake: Place the prepared melts on the lined baking tray. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
Serve: Let the melts cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be served alone or with a side of fresh arugula or spinach for a refreshing contrast to the rich, warm melt.