- Can I use frozen puff pastry?
- Yes, just thaw it completely at room temperature before using.
- Best ham?
- Cooked ham (prosciutto cotto) stays juicy, while cured ham (prosciutto crudo) is saltier but can dry out.
- Watery mozzarella?
- Slice and drain in a colander before use to prevent a soggy crust.
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Tart
While the sweet crostata uses shortcrust, this modern savory version (Torta Salata) uses puff pastry for speed and airiness. It's the Italian 'quiche': perfect for using up fridge leftovers. The classic duo of ham and cheese baked with a creamy egg custard creates a filling yet elegant dinner.
Ingredients
1
sheet
Puff Pastry (thawed)
5
oz
Cooked Ham (diced)
5
oz
Mozzarella Cheese
2
oz
Parmesan Cheese (grated)
2
cloves
Garlic (minced)
1
bunch
Fresh Basil
2
large
Eggs
3
tbsp
Sour Cream (or Heavy Cream)
1
pinch
Salt and Pepper
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Tart pan or baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
Allergen Information
Wheat
Milk
Egg
Instructions
1
✓
Preheat oven to 400°F. Unroll puff pastry and line your pan, creating a rim.
Tip: Keep it on the parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2
✓
Prick the bottom with a fork to stop it puffing up too much.
Tip: Don't prick the edges; let them rise.
3
✓
Scatter ham and mozzarella over the base.
Tip: Even distribution ensures a perfect bite every time.
4
✓
Whisk eggs with sour cream, minced garlic, parmesan, salt, and pepper.
Tip: Go easy on salt, parmesan is salty!
5
✓
Tear basil into the egg mixture (or scatter over ham).
Tip: Tearing prevents bruising and blackening.
6
✓
Pour egg mixture over the fillings.
Tip: Shake pan gently to distribute.
7
✓
Fold any overhanging pastry edges inward.
Tip: Brush edges with egg wash for shine.
8
✓
Bake for 30-35 minutes until filling is set and pastry is deep golden brown.
Tip: Cool for 10 minutes for easier slicing.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 1 sheet Puff Pastry (thawed)
- 5 oz Cooked Ham (diced)
- 5 oz Mozzarella Cheese
- 2 oz Parmesan Cheese (grated)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 bunch Fresh Basil
- 2 large Eggs
- 3 tbsp Sour Cream (or Heavy Cream)
- 1 pinch Salt and Pepper