These Ham and Cheese Bites are the perfect little snacks for any party or game night! With gooey cheese and savory ham wrapped up in a crispy crust, they’re simply hard to resist.
I love serving these warm right out of the oven. It’s hard not to sneak one before the guests arrive! Who can blame you, though? They’re just too tasty! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the show, providing that flaky texture. If you don’t have puff pastry, try using phyllo dough or even biscuit dough for a thicker base. Just remember, puff pastry really gives that classic lightness that’s hard to replicate!
Deli Ham: I recommend using thinly sliced deli ham for easy layering. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey ham or smoked chicken can work well too! For a vegetarian twist, try replacing it with roasted vegetables or mushrooms.
Swiss Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, but you can switch it out for Gruyère or Cheddar if you prefer a sharper flavor. I’ve also used Monterey Jack, which is creamy and delicious!
Dijon Mustard: It adds a nice tang, but feel free to omit it if you’re not a fan. Yellow mustard works in a pinch, or even a hint of hot sauce can spice things up!
How Do You Get That Perfectly Baked Puff Pastry?
Getting the puff pastry just right can be tricky, but here are some tips to ensure success:
- Make sure to thaw it properly in the fridge, not at room temperature, to prevent it from becoming too sticky.
- Roll it out gently to avoid tearing, and don’t overwork the dough.
- Press it firmly into the muffin tin but avoid stretching it, so it maintains its layers while baking.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different! Look for a golden brown color on the pastry edges and a set filling.
Ham And Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 4 oz deli ham, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (can substitute with Gruyère or Cheddar)
For the Custard Mixture:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley)
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the muffin tin
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 15-18 minutes to bake. So, in total, expect to spend about 35-40 minutes getting your yummy Ham and Cheese Bites ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your bites go in. Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to smooth it out. Cut the sheet into about 12 squares that are large enough to fit into the muffin cups. Each square should be about 3×3 inches for the best fit.
3. Form the Cups:
Take each puff pastry square and gently press it into the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cup to form little pastry cups. Make sure it’s snug but not stretched too tight.
4. Add the Ham:
Place a slice or small strip of ham inside each pastry cup. You can arrange it in a spiral or fold it to fit nicely—whatever works best!
5. Add the Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the ham in each cup. Go ahead and be generous; who doesn’t love more cheese?
6. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
7. Fill the Cups:
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the ham and cheese in each muffin cup, filling them about 3/4 full. This will allow room for the filling to puff up while baking.
8. Bake:
Pop the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the pastry is golden brown and puffed, and the filling is set and lightly browned.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done, remove the bites from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Carefully remove the bites from the muffin tin using a small spoon or fork to help them out.
10. Final Touch:
If you like, garnish your bites with some chopped fresh herbs before placing them on a plate. Serve warm and enjoy these savory, cheesy delights as a tasty appetizer or snack!
These Ham and Cheese Bites are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy every delicious bite! 😊
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can substitute it with Gruyère for a nuttier flavor or Cheddar for a sharper taste. Try a mix for a unique twist!
Can I Make These Bites in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the pastry cups and fill them with ham and cheese, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re chilled.
What Can I Serve These With?
These bites are great on their own or served with a small side salad or dipping sauces like mustard or ranch. They also pair well with a glass of white wine for a fun appetizer!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy again.