For anyone who loves a quick, delicious snack or meal, this Air Fryer Savory Puff Pastry with Ham, Cheese, and Béchamel Sauce is a game-changer.
Perfectly crisp, golden, and flaky, these pastries are filled with layers of creamy béchamel, savory ham, and melted cheese—all in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or just craving something indulgent, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– **Puff Pastry Sheets**: Frozen sheets work great. Just thaw before using.
– **Cooked Ham Slices**: Thinly sliced for easy layering.
– **Shredded Cheese**: A blend of Swiss, cheddar, or Gruyère works well.
– **Béchamel Sauce**: Creamy, homemade sauce that binds the ingredients perfectly.
– **Salt & Pepper**: To taste, for seasoning the béchamel.
– **Fresh Herbs** (optional): For garnishing and added flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. **Prepare the Béchamel Sauce**
Melt butter in a small saucepan, whisk in flour, and slowly add milk until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.
2. **Assemble the Puff Pastries**
Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a floured surface, cutting them into squares. Layer each square with a slice of ham, a spoonful of béchamel, and cheese. Fold to seal.
3. **Air Fryer Instructions**
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled pastries in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
4. **Serve & Enjoy**
Let them cool slightly before serving, then enjoy the warm, melty goodness!
Tips for the Perfect Puff Pastry
– **Avoid Overfilling**: A modest filling prevents bursting during cooking.
– **Brush with Egg Wash**: For a golden, glossy finish, lightly brush pastries with beaten egg before air frying.
– **Serve Fresh**: Air-fried puff pastries are best enjoyed immediately for the perfect crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This savory puff pastry recipe is quick, indulgent, and so easy to make in the air fryer. It’s ideal for parties, appetizers, or a cozy snack. Plus, it requires minimal prep and yields a gourmet result in minutes.
Let me know if this format works well for you!