Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Sticks Recipe

Introduction

Ham and Cheese Sticks are a deliciously flaky and savory snack perfect for any time of day. Made with puff pastry, sliced ham, and melted cheese, these bites are easy to prepare and sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Three golden-brown baked pastries are placed closely on a white plate against a white marbled background. Each pastry is twisted, showing multiple flaky layers of crispy pastry on the outside. Inside, layers of melted yellow cheese and light pink ham are visible, with cheese slightly oozing out at the edges. The tops of the pastries are sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and small bits of grated cheese, adding texture and color contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1 package of puff pastry (about 17.3 oz), thawed
  • 6 oz deli ham, sliced
  • 6 oz cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix), sliced or shredded
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Step 2: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet until it is about 1/8 inch thick.
  3. Step 3: Cut the puff pastry into rectangles approximately 3 inches by 5 inches. You should have about 12-16 rectangles depending on how you cut them.
  4. Step 4: Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over one half of each puff pastry rectangle.
  5. Step 5: Layer a slice of ham on top of the mustard, followed by a slice or sprinkle of cheese.
  6. Step 6: If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the cheese for added flavor.
  7. Step 7: Season the filling lightly with salt and pepper, keeping in mind the saltiness of the ham and cheese.
  8. Step 8: Fold the other half of the puff pastry rectangle over the filling, creating a sealed pocket. Press down the edges to seal and crimp with a fork.
  9. Step 9: Place the prepared sticks on the lined baking sheet.
  10. Step 10: Brush the tops with the beaten egg to help them turn golden and shiny during baking.
  11. Step 11: Repeat the filling and folding process for all puff pastry rectangles.
  12. Step 12: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
  13. Step 13: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

  • Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for a blend of sharp and creamy flavors.
  • Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the filling for extra depth.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
  • Make sure the puff pastry is well chilled before rolling out for best puff and flakiness.

Storage

Store leftover ham and cheese sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

The image shows three golden brown puff pastry rolls on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. Each roll has many flaky, crispy layers with a shiny, baked texture on the outside. Inside, layers of melted cheese and pink ham are visible, folded within the pastry. The rolls are topped with small green chopped herbs scattered evenly on top, adding a fresh color contrast. The flaky pastry looks crunchy and slightly puffy, with a light sprinkling of grated cheese baked into the surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry straight from the freezer?

It’s best to thaw puff pastry according to package instructions before rolling it out to prevent tearing and ensure even puffing during baking.

Can I prepare these in advance and bake later?

Yes, assemble the sticks and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Brush with egg wash just before baking for best results.

Print
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Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Sticks Recipe


  • Author: Lana
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 1216 sticks 1x

Description

Delicious and easy-to-make Ham and Cheese Sticks featuring flaky puff pastry filled with savory ham, melty cheese, and a hint of Dijon mustard. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party treat, these golden-baked sticks are flavorful and satisfying.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 package of puff pastry (about 17.3 oz), thawed
  • 6 oz deli ham, sliced
  • 6 oz cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix), sliced or shredded
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the sticks bake evenly and do not stick.
  2. Roll out puff pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to about 1/8 inch thickness for a delicate, flaky texture.
  3. Cut the pastry: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into rectangles approximately 3 by 5 inches, yielding 12 to 16 pieces depending on your cuts.
  4. Spread mustard: Take one rectangle and spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over half of it to add a tangy depth to the flavor.
  5. Add ham and cheese: Layer a slice of deli ham on the mustard-coated half, followed by a slice or sprinkle of your chosen cheese for a savory filling.
  6. Add parsley and seasoning: If using, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the cheese to brighten the flavors, then season lightly with salt and pepper, keeping in mind the saltiness of ham and cheese.
  7. Fold and seal: Fold the uncoated half of the pastry over the filling to form a pocket. Press down firmly and crimp the edges with a fork to seal the sticks completely and prevent leakage during baking.
  8. Arrange on baking sheet: Place the assembled sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them to allow puffing.
  9. Apply egg wash: Brush the beaten egg over the tops of the sticks to give them a glossy, golden finish once baked.
  10. Repeat assembly: Continue the process with the remaining pastry rectangles until all sticks are prepared.
  11. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the puff pastry has risen and turned a beautiful golden brown.
  12. Cool and serve: Remove the sticks from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to enjoy warm, flaky ham and cheese bites.

Notes

  • You can substitute the ham with turkey or chicken slices for a different protein option.
  • Use your preferred cheese or a mix to vary the flavor profile.
  • Chilling the puff pastry briefly before cutting can help achieve cleaner edges.
  • Ensure the edges are well sealed to prevent cheese from oozing out during baking.
  • These sticks can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
  • Serve with mustard or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Ham and Cheese Sticks, Puff Pastry Snacks, Savory Appetizer, Easy Party Food, Baked Ham Cheese Pastry

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