Brunch is served! These mouthwatering Ham and Cheese Turnovers use store-bought puff pastry and deli ham for easy assembly and irresistible results. Just fill, fold, and bake. Gooey cheese, crispy ham, and golden, flaky puff pastry are the perfect way to start the day!

Easy Ham and Cheese Turnovers: A Flaky Brunch Delight

While many associate turnovers with sweet fillings like fruit, there’s an undeniable charm to their savory counterparts. And when it comes to savory, few combinations are as universally loved as ham and cheese. Imagine biting into a warm, golden pastry, its buttery layers flaking away to reveal a molten core of rich cheddar and nutty Parmesan, perfectly complemented by savory, slightly crisp ham and a hint of tangy Dijon. These Ham and Cheese Turnovers are not just a meal; they’re an experience, a delightful way to elevate any breakfast, brunch, or even a light lunch.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the incredible flavor payoff. By leveraging convenient store-bought puff pastry, you bypass hours of intricate dough work without sacrificing that coveted flaky texture. With minimal prep and baking time, you can have these irresistible pastries on your table, impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a gourmet-quality meal with hardly any effort. Whether you’re planning a lavish brunch spread or need a quick yet satisfying bite on a busy morning, these turnovers are your answer. Get ready to transform everyday ingredients into a truly memorable dish!

The Magic of Puff Pastry: Your Shortcut to Culinary Brilliance

At the heart of these Ham and Cheese Turnovers is the magnificent puff pastry. This incredible dough, with its hundreds of delicate layers, is what gives our turnovers their signature light, airy, and incredibly flaky texture. While making puff pastry from scratch is a labor of love that can take hours, modern grocery stores offer high-quality, pre-made frozen puff pastry sheets that are a true game-changer for home cooks. This convenient ingredient dramatically cuts down on preparation time without compromising on the luxurious texture that makes these pastries so special.

When choosing your puff pastry, opt for a brand that is all-butter for the best flavor, though those made with shortening also work well. Ensure you thaw it properly according to package instructions, typically overnight in the refrigerator. A perfectly thawed sheet will be pliable enough to roll and cut without cracking but still firm enough to handle. It’s the foundation for our crispy, golden exterior, providing the perfect contrast to the warm, gooey filling inside.

Key Ingredients for Flavorful Turnovers

Creating these delightful ham and cheese turnovers requires just a handful of quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layered flavors and textures that make this recipe a standout. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:

• Puff Pastry: You’ll need one sheet, which typically comes folded. Thaw it thoroughly in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 30-40 minutes, ensuring it’s pliable but still cool enough to work with. This forms the essential flaky crust.
• Sliced Deli Ham: Choose a good quality, thinly sliced deli ham. Varieties like Black Forest, honey ham, or even smoked ham work wonderfully. The flavor of the ham will be prominent, so pick one you enjoy.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This is where a lot of the savory punch comes from. A strong, sharp, or aged cheddar will melt beautifully and offer a robust flavor that stands up to the ham. Grating it yourself from a block often yields better flavor and a creamier melt than pre-shredded varieties, which can contain anti-caking agents.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a layer of nutty, umami depth. Freshly grated Parmesan is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture, providing a salty, sharp counterpoint to the cheddar.
• Egg: Crucial for the egg wash. Whisked with a tablespoon of water, it creates that gorgeous, glossy, golden-brown finish on the pastry, making your turnovers look as good as they taste. It also helps in sealing the edges slightly.
• Melted Butter: Combined with Dijon and Parmesan, it forms a rich, savory base that enhances the flavor of the ham and cheese.
• Dijon Mustard: A small amount goes a long way. Dijon adds a tangy, slightly sharp kick that brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the cheese and ham, offering a gourmet touch.
• Fresh Parsley: Used for garnishing, it adds a pop of fresh color and a subtle herbaceous note that complements the savory profile. You can also incorporate a bit into the filling mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Delicious Ham and Cheese Turnovers

Crafting these delectable turnovers is a simple process that yields impressive results. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect golden, flaky pastries every time.

1. Prepare Your Workspace and Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a precise 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is at the optimal temperature for the pastry to puff up quickly and evenly. While the oven heats, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup, ensuring the bottom of your turnovers become beautifully crisp.
2. Prep the Puff Pastry: Carefully unroll your thawed sheet of puff pastry onto a lightly floured work surface. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, gently cut the pastry into equal-sized squares or rectangles, approximately 3 inches (7.5 cm) on each side. While precision is good, don’t stress if they’re not absolutely perfect – rustic charm is part of the appeal! Aim for consistency so they bake evenly.
3. Create the Flavorful Base: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, tangy Dijon mustard, grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Stir these ingredients until they are well combined. This mixture will serve as a delicious and aromatic base for your ham and cheese filling, adding moisture and a burst of flavor.
4. Assemble the Turnovers – Step One: The Flavor Base: Take one of your puff pastry squares and brush or spoon a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) of the butter-Dijon-Parmesan mixture onto one half of the square, applying it diagonally. Leave a small border around the edges. This ensures the flavors are evenly distributed.
5. Assemble the Turnovers – Step Two: The Cheese Layer: Sprinkle approximately 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the mustard-butter mixture on the pastry square. This layer will melt into gooey perfection during baking.
6. Assemble the Turnovers – Step Three: The Ham: Take a slice of deli ham and fold it in half or quarters to fit neatly onto the cheese layer. The ham will become slightly crispy as it bakes, adding a wonderful textural contrast.
7. Fold and Seal the Turnovers: To form the turnover, gently lift one of the empty corners of the pastry square and fold it over the ham and cheese filling, bringing it to meet the opposite corner. Press the edges down firmly with your fingertips to seal them. You can use a fork to crimp the edges, which not only looks decorative but also helps to ensure a tight seal, preventing the filling from oozing out.
8. Apply the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk one egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush the top surface of each folded turnover with this mixture. The egg wash is essential for achieving that gorgeous golden-brown, shiny crust that is characteristic of perfect puff pastry.
9. Arrange and Bake: Carefully transfer the prepared turnovers to your parchment paper-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow for expansion. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them – they are ready when they have puffed up significantly, turned a beautiful golden brown, and appear wonderfully flaky.
10. Cool and Garnish: Once baked, remove the turnovers from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows the pastry to set and the cheese to firm up slightly. Before serving, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Then, dig in and savor every warm, flaky bite!

Chef Jenn’s Expert Tips for Perfect Ham and Cheese Turnovers

Achieving bakery-quality ham and cheese turnovers at home is easier than you think, especially with a few professional insights. Here are some extra tips from Chef Jenn to ensure your pastries are absolutely perfect:

• Invest in Quality Ingredients: The fewer ingredients a recipe calls for, the more each ingredient shines. For these turnovers, using high-quality deli ham and cheese will make a noticeable difference in flavor. Look for artisanal hams and sharp, flavorful cheddar cheese from your local deli or specialty store. Freshly grated Parmesan is also key for the best taste.
• Experiment with Cheese Varieties: While sharp cheddar and Parmesan are a winning combination, don’t hesitate to personalize your turnovers. Swap out the cheddar for Gruyere, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of your favorite melting cheeses. Each cheese will bring its unique character to the filling, creating a new experience.
• Egg Wash Alternatives: If you’re looking for an egg-free option or simply want a different finish, you can brush the top of the pastry with a bit of heavy cream or milk instead of an egg wash. This will still give a lovely golden color, though perhaps slightly less shine. For a vegan option, a plant-based milk wash can also work.
• Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to load up on the filling, overfilling can make it difficult to seal the turnovers properly and can lead to leaks during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts to ensure a neat, secure pastry.
• Chill if Needed: If your puff pastry becomes too warm and sticky while you’re working with it, or if the kitchen is particularly warm, pop the pastry back into the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to handle.
• Score for Steam Release: For an extra professional touch and to allow steam to escape, you can lightly score the top of your turnovers with a sharp knife before baking. Just be careful not to cut all the way through the pastry.
• Serve Warm: These turnovers are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, when the cheese is gooey and the pastry is at its flakiest.

Make it a Meal: Elevating Your Ham and Cheese Turnovers

While Ham and Cheese Turnovers are undoubtedly satisfying on their own, pairing them with complementary dishes can transform them into a complete and unforgettable meal, perfect for any time of day.

For a Perfect Brunch Spread:

• Sweet and Savory Balance: Dial up your brunch spread by serving these savory turnovers alongside Smoked Candied Bacon. The crispy, sweet-and-smoky bacon offers a delightful contrast to the rich, cheesy pastry.
• Fresh Fruit Medley: A colorful bowl of fresh berries, melon, and grapes provides a refreshing, light counterpoint, adding vitamins and natural sweetness.
• Yogurt and Granola: For something cool and refreshing, offer some Maple Pecan Granola or Honey Almond Granola served with Greek yogurt or your favorite milk. This adds a crunchy texture and creamy element to the meal.
• Fresh Juices and Coffee: No brunch is complete without freshly squeezed orange juice, strong coffee, or even a mimosa to celebrate the occasion.

For a Hearty Lunch or Light Dinner:

• Soup Companions: Turnovers also make a great light lunch or appetizer served alongside a warm, comforting soup. Consider a bowl of rich Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Soup for an earthy, savory pairing, or spice things up with a creamy Cream of Jalapeño Soup for a delightful kick.
• Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is an excellent way to balance the richness of the turnovers. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or sweet potatoes can add both nutrients and flavor, creating a well-rounded meal.

What Exactly Are Turnovers? Unpacking the Perfect Pastry

The term “turnover” itself evokes images of a pastry folded over a delicious filling, and indeed, that’s precisely what it is! Turnovers refer to a type of baked pastry made from a square or circular piece of dough that is folded over a sweet or savory filling, then sealed along its edges and baked until golden and flaky. They are a delightful handheld treat, offering convenience and a satisfying blend of textures.

While often grouped with other filled pastries, turnovers have distinct characteristics that set them apart:

• Shape and Fold: Traditionally, turnovers are made by placing the filling on one half of a square of dough and then folding the other half over to create a triangular shape, sealing the edges. Sometimes, they can be made with circular dough folded into a half-moon, but the classic image remains triangular.
• Dough Type: Most commonly, turnovers are made with puff pastry, shortcrust pastry, or sometimes a laminated dough. Puff pastry, as used in this recipe, is particularly popular for its incredibly light and flaky layers.
• Fillings: Turnovers are incredibly versatile when it comes to fillings. Sweet versions often feature fruits like apples, berries, or peaches, sometimes spiced with cinnamon or nutmeg. Savory turnovers, like our ham and cheese, can include various meat and cheese combinations, vegetables, or even egg fillings for breakfast.
• Distinction from Similar Pastries: While similar to hand pies, empanadas, or pasties, turnovers often differ in their specific dough, folding technique, and sealing method. Hand pies are typically circular and crimped; empanadas often use a more robust, sometimes corn-based dough and are fried or baked; and pasties are traditionally more crescent-shaped and savory. The key difference often lies in the dough and the specific folding style, with turnovers often having distinct, layered edges from the puff pastry.

Originating likely from European culinary traditions, turnovers became a popular way to package a meal or treat into a portable format, perfect for travelers, workers, or simply for an easy-to-eat snack.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options for Ultimate Convenience

These Ham and Cheese Turnovers are fantastic fresh out of the oven, but their convenience doesn’t stop there. They are also excellent for make-ahead planning and storage, ensuring you can enjoy their deliciousness whenever a craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers:

Once baked and completely cooled, store any leftover turnovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. While they will lose some of their crispness in the fridge, a quick reheat will bring back much of their former glory.

Reheating Baked Turnovers:

You bet you can reheat them! For best results, avoid the microwave, as it will soften the pastry and make it chewy rather than flaky. Instead:

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the turnovers on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the pastry re-crisps. This method is ideal if you’re reheating several at once for a crowd.
• Air Fryer Method: If you’re just reheating one or two, an air fryer is a fantastic option. Preheat it to 325°F (160°C) and cook for 5-7 minutes, checking periodically, until hot and crispy.

Freezing for Later:

These turnovers freeze beautifully, offering a fantastic option for meal prep. You can freeze them either baked or unbaked:

• Freezing Baked Turnovers: Allow baked turnovers to cool completely. Wrap each turnover individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to a month. To reheat, follow the oven or air fryer instructions above, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time since they are frozen.
• Freezing Unbaked Turnovers (The Best Way to Prep Ahead!): This is arguably the best way to prepare them in advance for truly fresh-baked goodness. After assembling the turnovers but before applying the egg wash, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once solid, transfer the unbaked, frozen turnovers to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to a month. When you’re ready to bake, you can either thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, or bake them directly from frozen. If baking from frozen, add 5-10 minutes to the baking time and ensure they are golden brown and puffed up. Apply the egg wash just before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ham and Cheese Turnovers

Have more questions about making these savory treats? Here are some common queries and their answers to help you perfect your Ham and Cheese Turnovers.

Q: Can I use different types of ham?

A: Absolutely! While deli ham is convenient, you can certainly use leftover cooked ham, spiral-sliced ham, or even prosciutto for a gourmet touch. Just ensure it’s finely diced or thinly sliced so it cooks evenly within the pastry.

Q: What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

A: While Dijon adds a unique tang, you can substitute it with a small amount of yellow mustard mixed with a pinch of dry mustard powder, or even a touch of Worcestershire sauce for an umami kick. The butter and cheese will still provide plenty of flavor.

Q: Can I make these vegetarian?

A: Yes! Simply omit the ham. You could replace it with sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian cheese turnover. Ensure any vegetable additions are well-drained to avoid making the pastry soggy.

Q: How can I ensure my pastry is extra flaky?

A: The key to flaky pastry is keeping the dough cold! Work quickly, and if your kitchen is warm, chill the pastry and even your hands periodically. Don’t overwork the dough, and ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking.

Q: Can I add other seasonings to the filling?

A: Certainly! A pinch of black pepper, a touch of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of cayenne for a subtle heat can elevate the flavor profile. Fresh herbs like chives or thyme would also be lovely additions.

Q: My turnovers aren’t puffing up properly. What went wrong?

A: This usually happens if the oven isn’t hot enough (the puff pastry relies on high heat to create steam and layers), or if the pastry became too warm and the butter melted before baking. Make sure your oven is properly preheated and work with chilled pastry.

Q: Can I serve these for dinner?

A: Absolutely! While they make a fantastic breakfast or brunch item, they can easily be scaled up to serve as a light dinner, especially when accompanied by a fresh salad or a bowl of soup. They also make an elegant appetizer for a dinner party.

Step By Step Process Visual Guide

Want More Delicious and Easy Recipes?

• Smoked Asparagus
• Over the Top Chili
• Smoked Cream Cheese
• Lobster Chowder
• Smoked Shotgun Shells