This Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Slab Pie is a delightful combination of flaky, buttery pastry filled with savory ham and gooey cheese. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or as a party appetizer, this dish is both impressive and easy to make. The golden, crispy crust holds a rich, creamy filling that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- For the pastry:
- 2 sheets of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- For the filling:
- 1 cup cooked ham (diced)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings:
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Pastry:
- Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to fit a baking sheet. Place it on the baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Make the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, shredded cheese, softened cream cheese, parsley, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Spread the filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a border around the edges.
- Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry and place it over the filling. Press the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Egg Wash:
- Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg to give it a golden color as it bakes. If desired, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the slab pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy:
This Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Slab Pie is a crowd-pleaser that combines convenience with gourmet flavors. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or your favorite dipping sauce for an added touch.