Baked Cheesy Ham and Cheese Bites Recipe | Easy Puff Pastry Appetizers

Looking for a quick and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game nights, or snacks? These Baked Cheesy Ham and Cheese Bites are golden, crispy, and filled with savory ham and melted cheddar cheese. Made with puff pastry, they’re easy to assemble and guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup diced ham

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Pro Tip: Use cold puff pastry for easy handling and a flaky texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet evenly. This ensures a uniform thickness so the bites bake evenly and puff nicely.

Step 3: Add the Mustard

Spread Dijon mustard evenly over the pastry sheet. This adds a subtle tangy flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and ham.

Step 4: Layer Cheese and Ham

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and diced ham over the mustard layer. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

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Step 5: Roll the Pastry

Carefully roll the pastry into a log, starting from one edge. Make sure it’s tight enough to hold the filling but not too tight to squeeze it out.

Step 6: Slice and Arrange

Slice the log into 1-inch pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Space them slightly apart to allow the pastry to expand while baking.

Step 7: Apply Egg Wash

Brush the tops of each bite with the beaten egg. This gives them a golden, shiny finish once baked.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them, as puff pastry can brown quickly.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the bites to cool slightly before serving. This makes them easier to handle and enhances the flavor. Serve warm for the best experience.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.

• Cheese Variations: Try mozzarella, Gruyère, or Swiss cheese for a different flavor.

• Quick Version: Use pre-sliced deli ham and cheese to save prep time.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling before rolling.

• Storage Tip: Store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, brunches, or snacks.

• Versatile: Works with various fillings and cheeses.

• Golden & Crispy: Puff pastry creates a light, flaky texture that melts in your mouth.

enjoy!