Savory puff pastry filled with ham, cheese, and creamy béchamel sauce is the ultimate indulgence. This flaky, buttery creation is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Combining the richness of béchamel, the saltiness of ham, and the gooeyness of melted cheese, this dish is sure to impress anyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant and Easy: Looks fancy but is simple to make with pre-made puff pastry.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main dish, snack, or appetizer.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Combines universally loved flavors in a golden, flaky crust.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare and bake when ready to serve.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 4-6 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (warm)
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Make a Roux: Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour in the warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Season: Stir in nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Assemble the Puff Pastry
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to smooth out any creases.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce over the center of the puff pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border. Layer slices of ham on top, followed by shredded cheese.
- Seal the Edges: Fold the sides of the pastry over the filling and pinch the edges to seal. Optionally, use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Step 3: Bake
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the top of the pastry for a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake: Place the pastry on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Step 4: Serve
- Allow the pastry to cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, savory goodness.
Tips for Perfect Savory Puff Pastry
- Keep the Pastry Cold: Chilled puff pastry puffs up better in the oven.
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can make the pastry soggy.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of cheeses for different flavors.
- Reheat in the Oven: To maintain the crispiness, reheat leftovers in the oven instead of the microwave.
Customization Ideas
- Vegetarian Option: Swap ham for sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Spicy Kick: Add a layer of Dijon mustard or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the béchamel sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Mix chopped fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the béchamel for added flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 650mg
Conclusion
Savory Puff Pastry with Ham, Cheese, and Béchamel Sauce is a classic recipe that’s easy to prepare yet incredibly delicious. Perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a quick gourmet meal, this recipe combines rich flavors with flaky perfection. Try it today and experience the magic of puff pastry!