Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry (Crispy, Cheesy, and Fast)
If you’re looking for a quick appetizer, snack, or light meal that feels fancy without the effort, Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry is exactly what you need. Flaky, golden puff pastry wrapped around savory ham and gooey melted cheese creates a bakery-style treat that comes together in minutes—no oven required.
The air fryer gives the pastry a beautifully crisp exterior while keeping the inside warm and melty. Whether you’re serving these for breakfast, brunch, game day, or an easy weeknight bite, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy with minimal prep
- Perfectly flaky puff pastry every time
- Great for entertaining or make-ahead snacks
- Customizable with different meats, cheeses, or seasonings
- No oven needed, ideal for small kitchens
Ingredients You’ll Need
Puff Pastry
Frozen puff pastry sheets are the star of this recipe. Once thawed, they’re easy to work with and bake up light, flaky, and golden in the air fryer.
Ham
Thinly sliced ham works best. You can use honey ham, smoked ham, or leftover holiday ham cut into small pieces.
Cheese
Choose a cheese that melts well, such as:
- Swiss
- Cheddar
- Mozzarella
- Gruyère
Feel free to mix cheeses for extra flavor.
Optional Add-Ins
These extras aren’t necessary, but they add a nice twist:
- Dijon or honey mustard
- Black pepper or garlic powder
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley
Air Fryer Tips for Puff Pastry
- Thaw completely: Puff pastry should be cold but pliable before assembling.
- Don’t overcrowd: Leave space between pastries so hot air can circulate.
- Use parchment or foil: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Watch closely: Puff pastry browns quickly in the air fryer.
Cooking Temperature and Time
Set the air fryer to 360°F and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway if needed. The pastry should be puffed, golden brown, and crisp.
What to Serve With Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry
These pastries pair well with:
- A fresh green salad
- Tomato soup
- Fruit salad
- Scrambled eggs for a breakfast spread
Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Recipe
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield
- Servings: 6–8 pastries
Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 6–8 slices ham
- ¾–1 cup shredded or sliced cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (optional, for egg wash)
Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 6–8 slices ham
- ¾–1 cup shredded or sliced cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (optional, for egg wash)
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Pastry)
- Calories: 210
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 1 g
