Looking for a quick snack that packs a punch? You’ll love these Ham and Cheese Sticks! They’re easy to make with just a few simple ingredients like diced ham, creamy cheeses, and puff pastry. Perfect for any occasion, these tasty treats are great for your next party or a cozy night in. Join me as I guide you through the steps to create this fun and delicious snack!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
Seasonings and Herbs
– 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Pastry and Preparation
– 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Sesame seeds for sprinkling (optional)
To make ham and cheese sticks, gather these simple and tasty ingredients. Diced cooked ham gives a nice savory bite. Shredded mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, creating that gooey texture we all love. Cream cheese adds creaminess and binds everything together.
For flavor, fresh chives and parsley bring a bright touch. Garlic powder adds a warm depth, and a hint of black pepper gives a little kick.
You’ll also need puff pastry, which forms a crisp and flaky shell. An egg wash helps the sticks turn golden brown while baking. If you like, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra crunch.
These ingredients make for a delightful snack that is easy to prepare. You can mix and match them to suit your taste. Enjoy the process of creating this delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Ingredients
1. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step helps your sticks cook evenly.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup later.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, shredded mozzarella, cream cheese, chopped chives, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well blended. This mix is the heart of your ham and cheese sticks.
Assembling the Ham and Cheese Sticks
1. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick. This thickness gives you a nice bite.
2. Cut the pastry into strips, about 2 inches wide and 6 inches long. These strips will hold your filling.
3. Place a generous tablespoon of the ham and cheese mixture at one end of each pastry strip. Don’t be shy with the filling!
4. Fold over the pastry to create a pocket. Alternatively, you can roll it up tightly around the filling.
5. Seal the edges by pressing with a fork. This step keeps all the tasty goodness inside while baking.
Baking and Serving
1. Brush the tops of each stick with the beaten egg wash. This gives them a shiny, golden finish.
2. If you like, sprinkle sesame seeds on top. They add a nice crunch and flavor.
3. Place the sticks on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed. The smell will be amazing as they bake!
5. Once baked, remove them from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these delicious snacks warm, perhaps with a side of spicy mustard for dipping!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh ham and cheese make a big difference.
– Ensure the pastry is chilled before working with it. This keeps it flaky and light.
When you use fresh ham, it brings a nice, rich taste to the sticks. Fresh cheese melts perfectly. Chilled pastry helps avoid stretching, which can lead to tough bites.
Serving Suggestions
– Best served warm with dipping sauces. Spicy mustard or ranch dip works great.
– Pair with beverages that complement flavors. Try a light beer or sparkling water.
Serving these sticks warm makes them even more delicious. Dipping sauces add fun flavors. Choosing a light drink can balance the richness of the cheese and ham.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overfilling the pastry. This can lead to spills and mess.
– Not sealing the edges properly. This may cause the filling to leak out while baking.
Avoid overfilling to keep your sticks neat. Seal the edges well by pressing with a fork. This keeps all the yummy filling inside.
Variations
Different Cheese Options
You can switch up the cheese in your ham and cheese sticks. Use cheddar for a sharp bite or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Mixing different cheeses adds depth. Try a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for great taste. Each cheese brings its own flavor, making your snack even better.
Additions and Substitutions
Feel free to add more to your filling. Spinach adds a nice color and nutrition. Roasted peppers can give a sweet touch. If you want a change from ham, use turkey or chicken. This makes the sticks lighter but still very tasty.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free puff pastry. Many stores offer this now. For those avoiding dairy, there are great dairy-free cheese alternatives. These adjustments keep the recipe friendly for everyone while still being delicious.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To store ham and cheese sticks in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for about 3-4 days. Make sure they are fully cooled before sealing. For reheating, heat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps to keep the pastry crispy.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze ham and cheese sticks both before and after baking. If you freeze them before baking, wrap each stick in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay good for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, just cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. If you freeze them after baking, let them cool fully first. Store them in a similar way, and they will last about 1 month.
Signs of Spoilage
Identifying bad ham and cheese sticks is key for safety. Look for any off smells, discoloration, or slimy textures. If they feel sticky or have an odd odor, discard them. Always check the best before dates on the ingredients you use. Diced cooked ham and cream cheese are good for about a week in the fridge once opened.
FAQs
How do I make ham and cheese sticks from scratch?
To make ham and cheese sticks, you need some simple tools and ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Mixing bowl
– Rolling pin
– Fork
– Knife
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Sesame seeds for sprinkling (optional)
Once you have these ready, you can create a tasty snack in no time.
Can I make ham and cheese sticks ahead of time?
Yes, you can make ham and cheese sticks ahead of time. Here are some tips for storing them:
– Before Baking: Assemble the sticks and place them on a baking sheet. Cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
– After Baking: Let them cool completely. Then, store the sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This keeps them crispy.
What sauces pair well with ham and cheese sticks?
When serving ham and cheese sticks, dipping sauces can enhance their flavor. Here are some great options:
– Spicy mustard
– Honey mustard
– Ranch dressing
– Marinara sauce
– Garlic aioli
Feel free to mix and match sauces for tasty bites!
Ham and cheese sticks are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. We explored the key ingredients like ham, cheeses, and fresh herbs. I shared simple steps for prepping, assembling, and baking these tasty treats. Remember to chill the puff pastry for the best results. You can also try different cheeses or add veggies to customize your sticks. Store extras properly to enjoy them later. With these tips, you’re ready to impress everyone with your cooking skills. Enjoy your delicious ham and cheese sticks!
