Ham and Cheese Bites are like little bundles of joy for your taste buds! These tasty morsels have delicious ham and cheesy goodness wrapped in a crunchy shell. Perfect for snacking anytime!
They make a great party treat or a fun addition to lunch boxes. I love popping them in the oven and hearing that satisfying crunch! Your family will definitely ask for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky pastry is the star of the show! You can find it in the freezer section. If you’re out of puff pastry, consider using phyllo dough or crescent rolls, but keep in mind they will create different textures.
Ham: Any type of deli ham works well. I like using smoked ham for extra flavor, but feel free to swap it out with turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is classic, but you can mix it up with mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for a little heat. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded, so I recommend grating it yourself.
Cream Cheese: This adds extra creaminess. If you want a dairy-free version, try using hummus or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
How Do You Ensure Your Puff Pastry Stays Flaky?
Getting that light and flaky texture from puff pastry is key! Here’s how to handle the pastry for the best results:
- Keep the pastry cold. If it starts to warm up, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes.
- Don’t overwork the dough. Handle it just enough to set it in the muffin tin without stretching it out too much.
- Make sure to use enough egg wash on the edges for that beautiful golden color.
Following these tips will help your Ham and Cheese Bites turn out perfectly golden and flaky every time!
Ham And Cheese Bites
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 6 slices of ham, cut into strips or small squares
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling roughly 40 minutes from start to finish. Pretty quick for a delicious snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, take your mini muffin tin and lightly grease it with some cooking spray or butter. This will help your Ham and Cheese Bites pop out easily after baking!
2. Working with Puff Pastry
Next, take the puff pastry sheet and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Use a knife or pizza cutter to slice it into squares that are about 2.5 inches in size—this will help fit them nicely into the muffin cups. Gently press each square into the muffin tin to form little cups.
3. Creating the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, mix up the shredded cheddar cheese with the softened cream cheese. Add in some salt and pepper to taste, along with your dried parsley or Italian seasoning if you’re using it. This creamy-cheesy filling is going to be irresistible!
4. Filling the Cups
Take a spoonful of your cheese mixture and place it into each puff pastry cup. Don’t overfill them; just a tablespoon will do, as you still need space for the ham!
5. Adding the Ham
Now, grab those ham strips or pieces and place them into the center of each filled cup. Push them down slightly so they stay nestled in the cheese—this will really pack in the flavor!
6. Egg Wash for Shine
Crack the egg into a small bowl and beat it until it’s mixed. Use a brush to apply the egg wash to the edges of the puff pastry; this will give it a beautiful golden-brown finish when it bakes.
7. Baking Time!
Pop your muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—once the pastry is puffed and golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbly, they’re ready to come out!
8. Cooling and Serving
Let your Ham and Cheese Bites cool for a few minutes in the pan. If they’re sticking, use a knife to gently loosen them up. Then, serve them warm and enjoy your delightful little treats!
These bites are perfect for parties, as appetizers, or just a savory snack during the day. You might want to make a double batch—they’ll disappear quickly!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw it before using. You can leave it overnight in the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Keeping it cold while working with it will help achieve that lovely flaky texture.
What Can I Substitute for Ham?
If you’re looking for alternatives to ham, turkey or chicken make great substitutes. For a vegetarian option, consider using roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor! Just make sure to adjust cooking times if necessary.
How Do I Store Leftover Ham and Cheese Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again!
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the cheese mixture and ham ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just fill the pastry cups and proceed with the recipe as instructed.