Few things are more comforting than the combination of flaky pastry, melted cheese, and savory ham — especially when they come together in a perfectly golden turnover.
Savory cheese and ham turnovers are easy to make, incredibly versatile, and perfect for breakfast, lunch, snacks, or parties.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make irresistible homemade cheese and ham turnovers that everyone will love.
Why Cheese and Ham Turnovers Are a Must-Try
Turnovers are fantastic because they are:
- Portable and easy to serve
- Customizable with endless fillings
- Quick to prepare, especially with ready-made puff pastry
- Impressive yet simple to bake at home
Whether you want a fast snack or a hearty addition to a brunch table, savory turnovers are always a winning choice.
Tip:
Homemade turnovers also freeze beautifully, making them a great make-ahead option.
Key Ingredients for Cheese and Ham Turnovers
For the pastry:
- Puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- Egg (for egg wash)
For the filling:
- Cooked ham, diced or thinly sliced
- Cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or Swiss)
- Dijon mustard (optional, for a flavorful kick)
- Black pepper or a pinch of paprika for seasoning
Optional extras:
- Caramelized onions
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley
- Sautéed mushrooms
Tip:
Choose a cheese that melts well and pairs nicely with the saltiness of the ham.
Choosing the Right Pastry
Puff pastry is ideal for turnovers because it creates a light, flaky, buttery shell.
Store-bought puff pastry tips:
- Thaw the pastry properly in the refrigerator overnight.
- Keep it cold while working to prevent it from becoming sticky and difficult to handle.
Homemade puff pastry:
- Provides even more impressive results if you have time to prepare it.
Tip:
Work quickly with puff pastry and always chill turnovers before baking for best results.
Preparing the Filling
The filling should be flavorful but not too wet.
Steps:
- Dice or slice the ham finely.
- Grate the cheese or slice it thinly.
- Mix together in a bowl.
- Season lightly with black pepper.
- Add a small amount of Dijon mustard if desired for extra depth.
Tip:
Keep the filling simple and balanced — a little mustard goes a long way.
How to Assemble Cheese and Ham Turnovers
Step 1: Roll out the pastry
- Lightly flour your work surface.
- Roll the puff pastry slightly thinner, about ⅛ inch thick.
- Cut into even squares (typically about 5×5 inches).
Step 2: Add the filling
- Place a spoonful of the ham and cheese mixture on one half of each square, leaving a border.
Step 3: Seal the turnovers
- Brush the edges lightly with water.
- Fold the pastry over to form a triangle.
- Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
Tip:
Don’t overfill — too much filling can cause the turnovers to burst open while baking.
Preparing for Baking
Step 1: Chill before baking
- Place the assembled turnovers on a baking sheet.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.
Step 2: Egg wash
- Beat one egg with a tablespoon of water.
- Brush the tops of the turnovers for a golden, shiny finish.
Step 3: Vent
- Use a sharp knife to make a small slit in the top of each turnover to allow steam to escape.
Tip:
Chilling the turnovers helps the pastry puff better and prevents leaking.
Baking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
- Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Bake
- Bake turnovers for 18–22 minutes, or until puffed and deeply golden brown.
Step 3: Cool
- Allow to cool slightly before serving to avoid molten filling burns.
Tip:
Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even browning.
Creative Variations
Once you master the basic cheese and ham turnover, you can customize them easily.
Ideas:
- Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthier flavor.
- Include caramelized onions for sweetness.
- Swap ham for turkey or cooked bacon.
- Try spicy cheese like pepper jack for extra heat.
Tip:
Experiment with different herbs and spreads (like pesto) for endless variations.
How to Freeze and Reheat Turnovers
Freezing:
- Assemble turnovers but do not bake.
- Freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags.
Baking from frozen:
- Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C), adding 5–10 extra minutes to the bake time.
Reheating baked turnovers:
- Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes.
- Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crispy.
Tip:
Label freezer bags with filling type and date for easy organization.
Tips for the Best Homemade Turnovers
Work with cold pastry:
- Warm pastry becomes sticky and hard to manage.
Keep fillings dry:
- Wet ingredients cause leaks and sogginess.
Seal edges properly:
- Press down firmly with a fork and use egg wash to glue edges.
Chill before baking:
- Helps pastry puff and seals in the filling.
Vent the top:
- A small slit prevents steam buildup that can make turnovers burst.
Tip:
Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Cheese and ham turnovers pair wonderfully with:
- Green salads
- Tomato soup
- Pickles and chutneys
- Fresh fruit platters
- A cold glass of sparkling water or cider
They are perfect as a light meal, a hearty snack, or part of a brunch buffet.
Turnovers That Impress
Savory cheese and ham turnovers are simple to prepare but always make a big impact.
The combination of flaky pastry and melty, flavorful filling is irresistible whether you’re serving them fresh from the oven or pulling a batch from the freezer for a quick meal.
With a few smart techniques, you’ll be baking golden, crisp, and delicious turnovers that look as good as they taste — ready to impress family, friends, or even just yourself.
Start baking today and enjoy the homemade magic of real, buttery, savory turnovers!