Air Fryer Crescent Ham and Cheese Pockets
Even your picky eaters won’t resist these buttery, cheesy, and perfectly crispy crescent roll ham and cheese pockets. Made with just three simple ingredients and cooked in an air fryer, this recipe is the perfect solution for a quick snack, lunch, or dinner. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply need a delicious on-the-go meal, these pockets will quickly become a favorite.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Tips
- Do not stack the pockets: Leave space between each pocket in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispy results.
- Sealing is key: Crimp the edges of the dough with a fork to prevent the cheese from oozing out during cooking.
- Customizable fillings: Get creative with the ingredients—add sauces, veggies, or use your favorite cheeses for a personalized twist.
- Reheating leftovers: Warm up in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent dough: The flaky base for the pockets. You can substitute with homemade dough or pizza dough.
- 2 cups finely diced ham: Perfect for repurposing leftover ham. Alternatively, use deli ham or other meats like turkey, sausage, or chicken.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese: Adds a melty, cheesy goodness. Cheddar or Swiss cheese also work well.
- 2 tbsp butter, melted: Brushed on top for a golden, buttery finish.
Substitutions and Variations
- Add a sauce: Spread pizza sauce, alfredo, or pesto inside the pockets. Be cautious not to overfill.
- Make it vegetarian: Replace the ham with extra cheese and vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Seasonings: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning or Italian herbs for added flavor.
- Additional toppings: Add olives, red onions, or jalapeños for a punch of flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dough: Unroll the crescent dough on a lightly floured surface and press into an even rectangle. Cut each sheet into 4 equal rectangles.
- Assemble the Pockets: In a medium bowl, mix the ham and cheese. Place about ¼ cup of the mixture on one end of each dough rectangle. Fold the dough over the filling and press to seal the edges. Crimp with a fork for a tight seal.
- Brush with Butter: Place the pockets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Brush the tops with melted butter.
- Cook: Air fry for 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway, until the pockets are golden brown and puffed.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve warm.
FAQs
Yes! Assemble the pockets and freeze them unbaked. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge and air fry as directed.
You can bake these in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
Brush the tops with butter or egg wash, and use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Avoid overloading the air fryer basket.
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.
Enjoy these versatile and satisfying crescent pockets that can be customized to your heart’s content!
Air Fryer Crescent Ham and Cheese Pockets
Equipment
- Air fryer
Ingredients
- 2 – 8oz cans refrigerated crescent dough
- 2 c finely diced ham
- 1 1/2 c shredded colby jack cheese
- 2 tbsp butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees. Cut a piece of parchment paper to fit the air fryer basket.
- On a lightly floured surface, unroll the crescent dough and press into an even rectangle. Cut each sheet of crescent dough into 4 equal rectangles.
- In a medium bowl, stir together the ham and cheese. Place about ¼ cup of the mixture on each piece of crescent dough towards one end.
- Fold the crescent dough over the mixture and press to seal the edges. Crimp with a fork.
- Place the pockets into the air fryer basket, leaving space between for the crescent dough to puff. Brush with melted butter.
- Cook in the air fryer for 7 to 9 minutes, flipping halfway or until golden.
Nutrition
Nutrition values are estimates, for exact values consult a nutritionist.
