Hey There! Let’s Make Some Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Sticks
If you love easy and delicious snacks that wow everyone, you’re going to adore this recipe. I mean, who doesn’t love the combo of melty cheese, savory ham, and flaky puff pastry? These ham and cheese pastry sticks are exactly that—a simple bite of buttery, cheesy goodness wrapped in golden, crispy puff pastry. Plus, they’re perfect for parties, quick lunches, or just a cozy treat while you chill at home.
Why I Love These Ham and Cheese Pastry Sticks (and You Will Too!)
Honestly, they’re like little flavor bombs that come together quickly. The puff pastry gets all buttery and crisp, while the ham and cheese inside are the perfect savory filling. Plus, if you’re a sucker for cheese pulls like me, these won’t disappoint! They’re tasty enough to feel like a treat but straightforward enough to whip up even on busy days.
Nutritional Benefits You’ll Appreciate
While these sticks are definitely a treat, if you pick your ingredients right, they can offer some good stuff too. The ham is a great source of protein, which helps keep you full and energized. Cheese adds calcium and protein, supporting strong bones and muscles. Puff pastry, while more indulgent, provides energy-boosting carbs to keep you going.
If you’re mindful about fats and calories, using lean ham and a moderate amount of cheese keeps this snack balanced. And hey, even though it’s a bit of a treat, treating yourself every now and then is part of enjoying good food, right?
Equipment You’ll Want on Hand
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter (to cut puff pastry strips)
- Mixing bowl (for egg wash)
- Pastry brush (for applying egg wash)
- Measuring cup (for grated Parmesan cheese)
- Oven mitts (because safety first!)
Here’s How You Make These Yummy Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Sticks
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 6-8 slices cooked ham (thin or cut to fit pastry strips)
- 6-8 slices melting cheese (mozzarella, Swiss, or your favorite)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 1 egg (beaten for egg wash)
- Freshly cracked black pepper or poppy seeds (for topping)
- Optional: ketchup or barbecue sauce for dipping
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper. I like using parchment because cleanup is a breeze!
- If your puff pastry is frozen, make sure to thaw it properly as per the package instructions so it’s easy to handle.
- Cut the puff pastry sheet into strips about 1 inch wide. You can use a sharp knife or even a pizza cutter for neat edges.
- Now lay one slice of ham flat and then place a slice of cheese on top. Carefully roll them together into a tight stick—this is where the melty magic begins!
- Take one of your puff pastry strips and wrap it spirally around your ham and cheese roll. Press gently on the edge of the pastry as you wrap to seal it nicely.
- Place each wrapped stick seam-side down on your baking sheet. This helps keep them from unwrapping while baking.
- Brush the tops of your pastry sticks with the beaten egg wash. This gives them a golden, shiny finish that is just so inviting.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the tops, then add a dash of freshly cracked black pepper or some poppy seeds for a little extra flavor and crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed up, golden brown, and crispy, and the cheese inside is melted.
- Once baked, take them out and give them a few minutes to cool. Warm is best, but warm enough so you don’t burn your fingers!
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like ketchup or barbecue sauce. Trust me, it’s the perfect combo.
Tips to Make Your Ham and Cheese Pastry Sticks Even Better
- Don’t rush thawing: Puff pastry can be fragile—make sure it’s thawed enough to avoid cracks but still a bit cold for easy handling.
- Seal edges well: When wrapping the puff pastry, press and pinch the edges so it doesn’t come undone during baking.
- Customize your toppings: Parmesan adds great flavor, but you can try everything from sesame seeds to dried herbs for variety.
- Serve warm: Cheese pulls are at their best when these sticks are just out of the oven. If you need to reheat, a quick 5-minute warm-up in the oven will do.
- Store leftovers: Keep any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the pastry crisp.
Adaptable Variations to Try
- Vegetarian version: Swap the ham for sautéed mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or spinach with some extra cheese. You won’t miss the meat at all!
- Spicy kick: Add a thin spread of mustard or sriracha sauce inside before wrapping for a little heat.
- Different cheeses: Try cheddar, gouda, or a sharp provolone for unique flavors depending on what you love.
- Make it mini: Cut smaller strips to make bite-sized appetizers that are perfect for parties or snacks on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use pre-cooked or deli ham? Yes! Both work well, just slice it so it fits nicely inside your pastry strips.
- What if I don’t have puff pastry? You can try using crescent roll dough or even biscuit dough, but puff pastry gives the best flaky texture.
- Can I prepare these in advance? You can assemble them and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before baking, just cover with plastic wrap so the pastry doesn’t dry out.
- How do I store leftovers? Place cooled sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the oven to keep pastry crispy.
- Are they freezer-friendly? Absolutely! Arrange the wrapped sticks on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.
Let’s Chat!
So, are you going to try these ham and cheese puff pastry sticks? I’d love to know how they turn out for you! Don’t forget to snap a pic and share it on Pinterest or tag me if you try it on social media. It’s so fun to see your delicious kitchen creations, and I’m always here with more tasty ideas just like this one.
