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### Instructions
**Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes**
Start by boiling the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they’re tender, about 8-10 minutes. Once they’re cooked, drain and set aside.
**Step 2: Sauté the Onions**
In a medium pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they’re soft and golden brown, about 5 minutes. The sweetness of the onions will complement the savory ham and cheese in the dish.
**Step 3: Make the Potato and Ham Filling**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the boiled potatoes, sautéed onions, diced ham, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Add in the garlic powder, milk or heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash the mixture lightly with a fork, leaving a bit of texture, but making sure everything is well combined.
**Step 4: Roll Out the Puff Pastry**
Roll out one sheet of puff pastry onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You want to stretch it enough to cover the bottom of your baking dish (or a large baking pan if you don’t have a specific dish). Make sure to press the edges into place to form a crust around the sides.
**Step 5: Assemble the Bake**
Spread the potato and ham mixture evenly across the puff pastry. Then, take the second sheet of puff pastry and place it over the filling, sealing the edges by pressing them together. For a decorative touch, you can score the top of the puff pastry with a fork or make a few slits with a knife to allow steam to escape while baking.
**Step 6: Bake and Enjoy**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the puff pastry bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up. If desired, you can brush the top of the pastry with a little butter or an egg wash before baking to give it a shiny, golden finish.
Once baked, allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor, and serve!
### Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of this Cheesy Potato and Ham Puff Pastry Bake lies in its simplicity. The golden, flaky puff pastry provides the perfect base and top for the creamy, cheesy filling inside. The combination of potatoes and ham creates a hearty dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening, while the cheese adds that irresistible melty goodness.
It’s an easy meal to customize, too! Feel free to swap in different cheeses, add some veggies like spinach or bell peppers, or use turkey or chicken in place of the ham. The puff pastry makes it look impressive, but the preparation is straightforward, so you can enjoy the process as much as the finished product.
### Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a weekend brunch, or a special holiday gathering, this Cheesy Potato and Ham Puff Pastry Bake is sure to impress. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s also a great way to use up leftover holiday ham or roast beef!
So next time you’re in the mood for a dish that’s comforting, cheesy, and just a little indulgent, look no further than this Cheesy Potato and Ham Puff Pastry Bake. The perfect combination of flavors and textures will keep you coming back for more, and it’s easy to share the love with friends and family. Enjoy!
### Tips for Success
– **Make ahead**: This recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.
– **Leftovers**: If you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain that crispy puff pastry texture.
– **Flavors**: Get creative with your seasonings! Adding a pinch of paprika, fresh thyme, or a little mustard can elevate the flavors.
Indulge in this rich, comforting dish the next time you’re craving something that’s hearty, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious!
