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Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks Recipe

I had so much fun making these Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks — honestly, they’ve become one of my favorite comfort snacks. When I pulled them out of the oven, the pastry was golden, flaky, and filled with melty cheese and savory ham. Every bite felt warm and satisfying, perfect for sharing or enjoying on my own.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Puff pastry sheets – 2 sheets thawed. Store-bought pastry saves time and gives beautifully flaky layers; make sure it’s fully thawed but still cold before working with it.
  • Ham slices – 8 oz preferably thick-cut. Thicker slices provide better texture and prevent the filling from drying out while baking.
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese – 1 cup. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties and gives a better flavor.
  • Egg – 1 large for egg wash. This gives the pastry a shiny, golden finish and helps seal the edges.
  • Salt – a small pinch enhances all flavors without overpowering the filling.
  • Black pepper – adds mild warmth and balances the richness.
  • Optional herbs – thyme or oregano bring a fresh aroma and extra flavor boost if desired.

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and prevents sticking. Lay out thawed puff pastry sheets and gently roll them to even out the surface without making them too thin.
  2. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to divide each pastry sheet into equal squares, about 4 inches wide. Uniform sizes help stacks cook evenly and create neat layers. Arrange the squares on your work surface so assembly becomes easier.
  3. Place slices of ham on half of the pastry squares, then sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Season lightly with salt and pepper if desired. Cover each filled square with another pastry piece, gently pressing edges to seal.
  4. Beat the egg with a small splash of water and brush it over the tops of each stack. This step helps create a glossy, golden crust. If you like, sprinkle herbs or a little extra cheese on top for decoration.
  5. Place stacks in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before serving so the cheese sets a bit. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • I like to chill assembled stacks for 10 minutes before baking to help the pastry puff better.
  • I always grate cheese fresh because it melts smoother and tastes richer.
  • I avoid overfilling; too much filling can leak and make the pastry soggy.
  • Sometimes I brush a thin layer of mustard under the ham for extra flavor.
  • I rotate the baking tray halfway through baking to ensure even browning.