Ham and Cheese Sticks
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
These Ham and Cheese Sticks are the perfect savory snack that will satisfy your cravings! Crispy, flaky pastry wrapped around melty cheese and savory ham make for an irresistible appetizer that's easy to whip up for any gathering. Serve them warm for a delightful treat that pairs wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauce. Transform your snack game with this simple yet delicious recipe!
Ham and Cheese Sticks are a delightful snack that combines the flavors of ham and cheese inside a crispy pastry. Perfect for parties or a quick snack!
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Ham and Cheese Sticks are incredibly versatile, making them an ideal choice for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a game day party, a holiday gathering, or simply looking for a tasty treat for movie night, these sticks are sure to impress your guests. Their crispy texture and hearty filling provide a satisfying bite that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Plus, they can be made in advance and simply heated before serving, adding convenience to their deliciousness.
You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Swap out the ham for turkey or chicken, or try different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile. This adaptability ensures that no matter what you or your guests prefer, there is a delicious option available. Additionally, these Ham and Cheese Sticks can be the highlight of a charcuterie board or served alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
A Kid-Friendly Snack
Kids will love these Ham and Cheese Sticks for their fun, finger-friendly shape and rich flavors. They're a great way to encourage little ones to enjoy a balanced snack, packing in protein and calcium without any fuss. These sticks can turn a mundane after-school snack into something special, and you can even involve your children in the preparation process. This can be a delightful activity that not only entertains but also teaches them basic kitchen skills.
Serve these sticks with a side of your child's favorite dipping sauce, like ketchup, ranch, or a creamy mustard, to elevate the experience even further. The excitement of dipping can make the Ham and Cheese Sticks even more appealing, encouraging kids to explore different flavor combinations while enjoying a nutritious snack.
The Secret to Crispy Perfection
Achieving the perfect crispy texture with these Ham and Cheese Sticks requires a few simple tips. First, ensure that your puff pastry is fully thawed before working with it. Working with cold pastry can lead to uneven cooking and a less flaky texture. Additionally, a light hand when brushing on the egg wash will convey a beautiful golden finish without making the pastry soggy. Remember also to give the sticks enough space on the baking tray to allow for proper air circulation—which will contribute to that perfect crunch.
Preheating your oven properly is crucial as well. For the best results, always ensure your oven has reached the desired temperature before placing the sticks inside. This ensures that they start cooking immediately and evenly, resulting in beautifully risen and golden pastries. By following these steps, you’ll serve up Ham and Cheese Sticks that are not only delectable but also visually appealing.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 1 package of puff pastry (thawed)
- 6 slices of ham
- 6 slices of cheese
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
With these ingredients ready, you can start making your Ham and Cheese Sticks!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your tasty snack:
Prepare the pastry
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into rectangles.
Assemble the sticks
Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on each rectangle. Fold the pastry over the filling and seal the edges.
Brush and bake
Brush the tops with the beaten egg, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place them on a baking tray. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ham and Cheese Sticks!
Serving Suggestions
To accompany these tasty Ham and Cheese Sticks, consider preparing a selection of dipping sauces to cater to varying tastes. Classic options like marinara or a zesty garlic aioli can complement the savory flavors perfectly. If you’re looking for a twist, a sweet chili sauce can add a delightful contrast to the richness of the cheese and ham. This added variety will keep your guests coming back for more!
For a complete appetizer spread, pair the Ham and Cheese Sticks with a fresh garden salad or a colorful platter of seasonal vegetables. This combination provides a balanced array of tastes and textures, making your gathering feel more wholesome and festive. Guests will appreciate the balance of indulgence with fresh flavors, and you’ll be the host who knows how to impress without breaking a sweat.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers after your gathering, don't worry! These Ham and Cheese Sticks can be easily stored and enjoyed later. To keep their crispy texture, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any moisture, ensuring they stay fresh longer. They can be stored this way for up to three days in the refrigerator.
When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the Ham and Cheese Sticks in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as this can make the pastry soggy instead of crispy. Reheating them in the oven helps to restore their delightful crunch and bring back that fresh-baked flavor.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What truly sets these Ham and Cheese Sticks apart is their balance of flavor and texture. The combination of the flaky, buttery pastry with the gooey cheese and savory ham creates a harmonious bite that is hard to resist. Unlike other snacks that can feel heavy or overly rich, these sticks manage to be satisfying without being overwhelming, making them perfect for any crowd.
Moreover, this recipe is incredibly simple, allowing for maximum enjoyment with minimal effort. Even novice cooks can whip up these delicious treats, and their appeal is universal across age groups. This is one snack that truly delivers on flavor, satisfaction, and ease of preparation—making it a staple in your recipe repertoire!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and assemble them, then store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
Ham and Cheese Sticks
These Ham and Cheese Sticks are the perfect savory snack that will satisfy your cravings! Crispy, flaky pastry wrapped around melty cheese and savory ham make for an irresistible appetizer that's easy to whip up for any gathering. Serve them warm for a delightful treat that pairs wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauce. Transform your snack game with this simple yet delicious recipe!
Created by: Lila Morgan
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 package of puff pastry (thawed)
- 6 slices of ham
- 6 slices of cheese
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into rectangles.
Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on each rectangle. Fold the pastry over the filling and seal the edges.
Brush the tops with the beaten egg, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place them on a baking tray. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 15g