There’s something magical about the smell of warm, cheesy goodness wafting through the kitchen. I remember making Cheesy Ham & Cheese Sticks with my family on lazy weekend afternoons. We would gather around the kitchen table, laughter filling the air as we rolled out the dough and filled each stick with ham and cheese. This recipe is special to me because it brings together simple ingredients and a lot of joy, resulting in a snack that everyone loves. Whenever I make them, I feel connected to those cherished moments. Cheesy Ham & Cheese Sticks are not just food; they’re a delightful way to create memories.
why make this recipe
Making Cheesy Ham & Cheese Sticks is a fantastic choice for several reasons. They are quick and easy to prepare, perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. These tasty treats work well as appetizers at gatherings, snacks for the family, or even a simple lunch. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch that everyone will adore. Plus, they’re wonderfully versatile, allowing you to adapt the fillings to suit your tastes.
how to make Cheesy Ham & Cheese Sticks
Ingredients:
- 8 oz ham, sliced
- 8 oz cheese (cheddar or your choice), sliced
- 1 package of puff pastry sheets
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a floured surface.
- Cut the pastry into rectangles.
- Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on one half of each rectangle.
- Fold the other half over the filling and seal the edges with a fork.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
how to serve Cheesy Ham & Cheese Sticks
Cheesy Ham & Cheese Sticks are best served warm. Enjoy them straight out of the oven for the ultimate cheesy experience. You can pair them with dipping sauces like mustard, ranch, or even a spicy sriracha for a kick. They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board or as part of a cozy family meal.
how to store Cheesy Ham & Cheese Sticks
If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again. This way, you can enjoy their cheesy goodness even after the first batch!
tips to make Cheesy Ham & Cheese Sticks
- For extra flavor, season the ham and cheese with herbs or spices before placing them in the pastry.
- Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent the cheese from oozing out while baking.
- Try different types of cheese, like mozzarella or Swiss, for a unique taste.
- If you like a crunchier texture, bake a few minutes longer until they reach your desired crispness.
variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a more colorful and nutritious option. Alternatively, you can use different types of meat, such as turkey or chicken, to change up the flavors.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought ham and cheese?
Yes, using store-bought ham and cheese is perfectly fine. Just make sure they are sliced thinly for easy filling.
2. Can I freeze Cheesy Ham & Cheese Sticks?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just put them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. What can I use instead of puff pastry?
If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use crescent roll dough or even homemade biscuit dough for similar results.
Cheesy Ham & Cheese Sticks
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz ham, sliced Use store-bought or homemade.
- 8 oz cheese (cheddar or your choice), sliced Can substitute with mozzarella or Swiss.
- 1 package puff pastry sheets Thaw according to package instructions.
- 1 each egg, beaten For egg wash.
- to taste Salt and pepper
Method
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a floured surface.
- Cut the pastry into rectangles.
- Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on one half of each rectangle.
- Fold the other half over the filling and seal the edges with a fork.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
Baking
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.