Need a fast, delicious meal that everyone loves? Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Pockets are the ultimate Quick Savory Snack, ready in just 15 minutes with only four ingredients! Crispy tortillas wrap gooey cheese and savory ham, air-fried to golden perfection. Perfect for busy lunches, after-school snacks, or easy dinners, these pockets beat store-bought every time and have become my family’s go-to comfort food.
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Pockets
Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Pockets shine as a Quick Savory Snack:
- Minimal Ingredients: Just ham, cheese, tortillas, and butter.
- Lightning Fast: Prepped and cooked in 15 minutes.
- Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters devour these.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead for instant meals.
I whip up this Quick Savory Snack when I need a crowd-pleaser without the fuss!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Pockets
Here’s what you’ll need for Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Pockets (makes 4 pockets):
- 4 (8-inch) flour tortillas
- 1 cup deli ham, chopped
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar jack cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Ingredient Tips:
- Tortillas: 8-inch size folds perfectly; warm to prevent cracking.
- Ham: Deli-style for flavor; chop finely for even distribution.
- Cheese: Cheddar jack melts smoothly; mozzarella or Swiss work too.
- Butter: Softened for easy brushing; ensures golden crispness.
Directions for Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Pockets
Let’s create these tasty Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Pockets!
Warm Tortillas
- I stack 4 tortillas on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave for 20 seconds to make them pliable.
Prep Filling
- I chop 1 cup deli ham into small pieces for even filling.
- I set aside 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar jack cheese, reserving ¼ cup for topping.
Assemble Pockets
- On each warm tortilla, I place ¼ cup cheese in the center, add ¼ cup chopped ham, then top with another ¼ cup cheese.
- I fold the tortilla edges inward, then roll tightly to seal, ensuring no filling escapes.
Add Topping
- I brush the tops of each pocket with softened butter and press 1 tbsp reserved cheese into the butter for a crispy, cheesy crust.
Air Fry
- I preheat my air fryer to 380°F.
- I place the pockets seam-side down in the basket, leaving space for air circulation, and cook for 5 minutes until golden and the cheese is melted.
- I let them cool for 2 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: ~15 minutes
- Servings: 4 pockets
- Calories: ~350 kcal per pocket
- Macros per Serving: 30g carbs, 18g protein, 20g fat, 2g fiber
Variations for Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Pockets
Try these twists on Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Pockets:
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp diced jalapeños for a fiery Quick Savory Snack.
- Turkey Swap: Use deli turkey and Swiss for a different Quick Savory Snack vibe.
- Veggie Boost: Include ¼ cup diced bell peppers or spinach.
- Mustard Zing: Spread ½ tsp Dijon mustard inside before filling.
- Breakfast Twist: Add scrambled eggs for a morning pocket.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Layla Cooks’ Vanilla Dream Cake for a sweet-savory meal.
- Serve with carrot sticks, grapes, or a side salad for a balanced Quick Savory Snack.
- Dip in ranch or marinara sauce for extra flavor.
Storage
I store Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I air fry at 350°F for 2–3 minutes or microwave for 30–45 seconds until warm. For freezing, I assemble the pockets, wrap individually in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. I cook from frozen at 380°F for 6–8 minutes, no thawing needed. I always check leftovers for freshness before eating.
FAQs :
Here are some common questions about this recipe:
Can I use different types of cheese in these pockets?
Absolutely! Mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack add great flavor. Just choose a cheese that melts well for that gooey texture.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No worries! Bake the pockets at 400°F on a baking sheet for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and melty.
Can I make these ahead and freeze them?
Yes! Assemble, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen in the air fryer at 380°F for 6–8 minutes.
How do I prevent the cheese from flying around in the air fryer?
Press the topping cheese firmly into the butter before cooking to keep it in place during air frying.
Why do my tortillas crack when folding?
Cold tortillas are stiff and prone to cracking. Warm them in the microwave for 20 seconds with a damp paper towel to make them flexible.
More Delicious Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love
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- Air Fryer Eggplant Asian Style
- Smoked Mexican Street Corn Dip
- Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Pockets have become one of those simple solutions that makes busy life so much easier. They’re proof that sometimes the best recipes are the ones that take everyday ingredients and turn them into something that feels special. Plus, having a stash in the freezer means you’re always 5 minutes away from a hot, satisfying meal that beats anything from the store.
Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Pockets
Ingredients
- 4 8-inch flour tortillas
- 1 cup deli ham chopped
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar jack cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened
Instructions
Warm Tortillas
- I stack 4 tortillas on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave for 20 seconds to make them pliable.
Prep Filling
- I chop 1 cup deli ham into small pieces for even filling. I set aside 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar jack cheese, reserving ¼ cup for topping.
Assemble Pockets
- On each warm tortilla, I place ¼ cup cheese in the center, add ¼ cup chopped ham, then top with another ¼ cup cheese. I fold the tortilla edges inward, then roll tightly to seal, ensuring no filling escapes.
Add Topping
- I brush the tops of each pocket with softened butter and press 1 tbsp reserved cheese into the butter for a crispy, cheesy crust.
Air Fry
- I preheat my air fryer to 380°F. I place the pockets seam-side down in the basket, leaving space for air circulation, and cook for 5 minutes until golden and the cheese is melted. I let them cool for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Always warm tortillas before folding to prevent cracking
- Press cheese topping into the butter so it doesn't blow around in the air fryer
- These can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months
- Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model
- Can also be baked in a 400°F oven for 12-15 minutes if you don't have an air fryer
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