Picnic Turnovers
Picnic Turnovers are savory, cheesy pastries filled with ham and flavorful seasonings, perfect for outdoor lunches or quick snacks, offering a crispy crust and rich filling.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked ground ham, mayonnaise, dry mustard, onion juice, and finely chopped dill pickle; mix well.
- Sift flour with baking powder and salt into a bowl.
- Cut in shortening until the mixture resembles meal.
- Add milk gradually until a soft dough forms.
- Roll the dough lightly on a floured board to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into 4-inch squares.
- Brush each square with melted butter.
- Place a slice of cheese on half of each square.
- Put 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture on top of the cheese.
- Fold the squares over to form triangles, covering the filling.
- Press the edges together to seal.
- Bake in a hot oven at 425°F for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter filling, consider using shredded rotisserie chicken or a vegetarian option like mushrooms and spinach. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a tangy twist. If you want a hint of sweetness, add a teaspoon of honey to the meat mixture. Remember to keep the dough cool to ensure flaky turnovers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these turnovers warm with a side of tangy mustard or your favorite dipping sauce. They pair beautifully with Buttery Crunch Topped Tomatoes for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider a light salad or some pickled vegetables alongside to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover turnovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. You can also microwave them, but the texture may be softer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picnic Turnovers contains roughly 216 calories, with 6g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value), calcium (12% of the Daily Value), and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 935mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out to ensure it's manageable.
What types of cheese work best in this recipe?
Cheddar and Swiss cheese are excellent choices due to their melting qualities and flavor profiles. You can also experiment with pepper jack for a spicy kick or a creamier option like mozzarella.
Can I freeze the turnovers before baking?
Absolutely! Assemble the turnovers but do not bake them. Instead, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).