Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the joy of Ham and Cheese Sticks! These little bundles of deliciousness are the ultimate snack or appetizer, perfect for any gathering. I remember the first time I made them for a friends’ game night; they vanished in minutes! Seriously, there’s just something about that crispy puff pastry wrapping up savory ham and gooey cheese that makes everyone swoon. They’re so easy to whip up, and you can customize them to fit your taste, which makes them even more fun. Trust me, once you try these Ham and Cheese Sticks, you’ll want to make them again and again for any occasion!
Ingredients List
1 cup diced ham
1 cup shredded cheese (your favorite type works great!)
1 package puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
1 egg, beaten (for that lovely golden finish)
How to Prepare Ham and Cheese Sticks
Alright, let’s get into the fun part—making these Ham and Cheese Sticks! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial because you want that pastry to puff up beautifully!
Prepping the Puff Pastry
Now, grab your thawed puff pastry and place it on a floured surface. Trust me, this step is key to keeping it from sticking! Roll it out gently with a rolling pin until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Then, use a sharp knife to cut it into rectangles, about 3×4 inches. Don’t stress about getting them perfect; a little variation adds charm!
Next, it’s time to fill those pastry rectangles! Place a spoonful of diced ham and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese in the center of each rectangle. Be careful not to overfill; you want to be able to fold the pastry over without spilling! Fold the pastry over the filling and press the edges together to seal them. I like to crimp the edges with a fork for a cute touch and to make sure they’re sealed tight.
Baking the Sticks
Now for the finishing touch! Brush the tops of the sticks with the beaten egg; this will give them that gorgeous golden color when they bake. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re puffed up and beautifully golden brown. Oh, the smell will be incredible, and I promise you’ll want to dive right in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare—whip them up in just 35 minutes!
Easy to make, even for beginner cooks.
Versatile! Use any cheese you love, from cheddar to mozzarella.
Perfect for parties, game nights, or just a cozy snack at home.
They’re a crowd-pleaser—watch them disappear in no time!
Can be made ahead and frozen for later enjoyment.
Tips for Success
To make sure your Ham and Cheese Sticks turn out perfectly, here are my top tips! First, always use cold puff pastry; it puffs up better when it’s cold, giving you that flaky texture we all love. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheese types—smoked gouda or pepper jack can add a fun twist! If you have leftovers (which is rare, trust me), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore that crispy goodness. You’ll be amazed at how delicious they still taste!
Nutritional Information
Before diving into these delicious Ham and Cheese Sticks, it’s good to know what you’re getting! Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this information is a general guideline. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per stick:
Calories: 150
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 8g
Enjoy these tasty treats knowing they’re not just delicious but also provide a little boost of protein and flavor for your snack time!
FAQ Section
Got some questions about these delightful Ham and Cheese Sticks? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
Can I freeze Ham and Cheese Sticks?
Absolutely! These little sticks freeze beautifully. Just prepare them up to the baking stage, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re firm. After that, you can transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer—it’s that easy!
What other fillings can I use?
The sky’s the limit here! You can mix it up with cooked chicken, veggies, or even different cheeses like feta or swiss. Feel free to get creative—a little garlic or herbs can elevate the flavor even more!
How do I reheat them?
To bring back that crispy texture, I recommend reheating your Ham and Cheese Sticks in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will make them just as delicious as when they first came out of the oven!
Can I make these ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare them a few hours in advance and keep them in the fridge before baking. Just remember to brush them with the egg wash right before they go in the oven for that shiny finish.
What dipping sauces pair well?
Oh, you can’t go wrong with a good dipping sauce! I love serving them with a side of mustard or a tangy barbecue sauce. Ranch dressing is also a favorite for dipping—so tasty!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Ham and Cheese Sticks, the possibilities are endless! I love pairing them with a zesty mustard dip or a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce—both really complement the savory filling. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a creamy ranch dressing is always a hit. For sides, consider a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness, or some crispy vegetable sticks for that perfect crunch. And don’t forget about drinks! A light sparkling lemonade or an ice-cold beer can make your snack experience even better. Enjoy those delicious sticks with your favorite accompaniments!
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