Looking for a snack that’s a hit at any gathering? Ham and cheese sticks are your answer! These delightful treats combine savory ham and gooey cheese, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. In this post, I’ll walk you through the simple steps, offer tips for perfecting your sticks, and share fun variations. Whether for a party or a movie night, these bites are sure to please. Don’t miss out on making your next snack a winner!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature
Herbs and Seasoning
– 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Puff Pastry and Egg Wash
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, fully thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Sesame seeds for sprinkling (optional)
When I make ham and cheese sticks, I love starting with fresh, quality ingredients. The diced cooked ham gives a savory kick. Shredded mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, making each bite creamy. Cream cheese adds richness, making the filling smooth and decadent.
Herbs like chives and parsley give a fresh touch. They balance the savory flavors and make the dish pop. Garlic powder adds a warm, savory note, while black pepper brings a gentle heat.
Don’t forget the puff pastry! It creates a flaky, golden crust. The egg wash helps it shine when baked. If you like some crunch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top. They add a nice texture and flavor.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to make a tasty snack everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
– In a medium bowl, mix together:
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Stir well until all the ingredients blend into a creamy mix.
Puff Pastry Preparation
– Dust your work area with flour.
– Roll out the puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thick.
– Cut the pastry into strips, each 2 inches wide and 6 inches long.
– At one end of each strip, add a generous tablespoon of the ham mixture.
– Fold the pastry over the filling or roll it up tightly.
– Use a fork to press down the edges and seal them firmly.
Baking Instructions
– Brush the tops of the sticks with beaten egg wash.
– If you like, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra crunch.
– Place the sticks on the lined baking sheet, spaced apart.
– Bake them for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
– After baking, let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
To make ham and cheese sticks that wow, I suggest baking them at 400°F (200°C). This temperature gives you golden, flaky pastry. Bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes. The sticks should puff up and turn a nice golden brown.
For the filling, aim for a creamy texture. If you use too much cream cheese, it can get runny. Mix diced ham, mozzarella, and cream cheese well. This blend creates a rich taste. The fresh herbs add a nice touch, too.
Serving Suggestions
When serving these sticks, warm is best. Place them on a nice platter for a fun look. Pair them with zesty spicy mustard or a tangy ranch dip. These sauces add flavor and make the snack more exciting.
You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for color. This small touch makes your dish pop.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overfilling the pastry. If you add too much filling, it can spill out while baking. Stick to a generous tablespoon of the mix at the end of each strip.
Handling the puff pastry can be tricky. Be sure to flour your surface lightly. This helps prevent sticking. When sealing the edges, use a fork to press down firmly. This keeps the filling inside, ensuring a perfect bite every time.
Variations
Cheese Alternatives
You can switch up the cheese in your ham and cheese sticks. Try using cheddar or gouda. These cheeses bring rich and bold flavors. Mixing different cheeses can create a tasty depth. For example, blend mozzarella with sharp cheddar. This combo will give your sticks a delightful twist.
Flavor Additions
Adding spices can make your snack even better. A sprinkle of paprika or cayenne can add a nice kick. You can also toss in some veggies. Spinach or bell peppers add color and crunch. Simply chop them finely and mix with the cheese and ham. This way, your snack gets a healthy upgrade.
Dietary Adjustments
If you’re gluten-free, don’t worry! You can use gluten-free pastry for the sticks. There are many great brands available. For those who prefer vegan options, swap the dairy. Use plant-based cream cheese and cheese. You can still enjoy delicious, cheesy flavors without the animal products.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
After you make your ham and cheese sticks, store any leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for a few days. When you’re ready to eat them, you can re-crisp them. To do this, use an oven or air fryer. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10 minutes. In an air fryer, set it to 350°F and cook for 5-7 minutes. Both methods give you a nice crunch.
Long-Term Storage
If you want to keep your ham and cheese sticks longer, freezing is a great option. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. After they are firm, transfer them to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. To thaw, move them to the fridge overnight before baking. This way, they are ready to cook without losing flavor.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your ham and cheese sticks will last about 3 to 4 days. Check for signs of spoilage before eating. If they smell sour or look discolored, it’s best to throw them away. Always trust your senses. Keeping food safe is important for good health. Enjoy your tasty snack without worry!
FAQs
How to make ham and cheese sticks from scratch?
To make ham and cheese sticks, follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix diced cooked ham, shredded mozzarella, and softened cream cheese. Add chopped chives, parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Lightly flour your counter. Roll out the puff pastry to 1/8 inch thick. Cut it into strips, about 2 inches wide and 6 inches long.
4. Place a tablespoon of the ham mix at one end of each pastry strip. Fold or roll it tightly. Use a fork to seal the edges.
5. Brush the tops with beaten egg. Sprinkle sesame seeds if you want.
6. Place the sticks on the baking sheet, spaced apart. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
7. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
These tasty sticks make a great snack or light meal.
Can I use pre-made puff pastry for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-made puff pastry. It’s a great time-saver for busy cooks. Just make sure it is fully thawed before you roll it out. This option still gives you crispy, flaky results.
Feel free to check the package for any specific instructions. Using store-bought pastry can help you focus on the filling. It still tastes delicious and looks impressive.
What dips pair well with ham and cheese sticks?
Here are some great dips that go well with ham and cheese sticks:
– Spicy mustard: Adds a nice kick.
– Ranch dressing: Creamy and cool.
– Honey mustard: Sweet and tangy flavor.
– Marinara sauce: A classic for a tomato twist.
These dips can enhance the taste and make your snack even more fun!
This blog post covered all you need for tasty ham and cheese sticks. We detailed the key ingredients, from ham to cheese and seasonings. You learned step-by-step how to prepare, bake, and serve them. I also shared tips to improve your dish and avoid mistakes. You can experiment with variations to suit your taste. Remember to store leftovers properly for the best flavor. Enjoy making these delicious snacks for yourself and your friends!
