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Ham Cheese and Spinach Puffs Recipe

A flaky, golden Ham Cheese and Spinach Puffs Recipe made with buttery puff pastry, creamy cheese, savory ham, and nutritious spinach—perfect for quick appetizers, brunch, or snacks.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Pastry

  • 2 sheets puff pastry thawed but cold

For the Filling

  • 1½ cups cooked ham diced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or 1 cup frozen, thawed and squeezed dry
  • 1 cup shredded cheese Gruyere, Swiss, or cheddar
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg optional

For Egg Wash

  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon water

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

  • If using fresh spinach, saute until wilted, then cool and squeeze out excess moisture.
  • If using frozen spinach, thaw completely and press out all liquid.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling

  • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
  • Cook until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
  • Stir in spinach, ham, and half of the cheese.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Step 3: Prepare Puff Pastry

  • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  • Lightly flour your surface and roll out puff pastry slightly.
  • Cut into 4–5 inch squares.

Step 4: Assemble the Puffs

  • Place 1–2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each square.
  • Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
  • Fold corners inward or seal with another square.
  • Press edges gently to secure.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash

  • Mix egg and water, then brush over each puff for a golden finish.

Step 6: Bake

  • Place puffs on a lined baking tray.
  • Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and puffed.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

  • Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Notes

  • Keep pastry cold for best flakiness.
  • Drain spinach thoroughly to avoid soggy puffs.
  • Do not overfill, or the pastry may burst.
  • You can freeze unbaked puffs and bake directly from frozen (add extra baking time).
  • Reheat in the oven instead of microwave to maintain crisp texture.
  • Variations:
    Add mushrooms or onions for extra flavour
    Use cream cheese for a richer filling
    Make mini puffs for party appetizers