Ham and Cheese Sticks are a delicious and easy snack or appetizer that combines savory ham and melted cheese wrapped in a crispy pastry. Perfect for parties, game days, or a quick bite at home, these sticks are sure to please everyone!

Ingredients

• 1 package (1 lb) puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
• 8 ounces sliced ham (such as deli ham or prosciutto)
• 8 ounces shredded cheese (such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon water
• Optional: 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as oregano or thyme) for seasoning
• Optional: Mustard or dipping sauce (for serving)

Timing

Making Ham and Cheese Sticks takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Roll Out Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out each sheet of puff pastry to smooth it out and make it slightly thinner.
2. Cut Pastry: Cut each sheet into rectangles (about 3×4 inches).

Step 3: Assemble the Sticks

1. Layer Ham and Cheese: On one half of each rectangle, place a slice of ham and a generous amount of shredded cheese. If desired, sprinkle some dried herbs on top for added flavor.
2. Fold Pastry: Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to create a pocket. Press the edges together to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

1. Make Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash.
2. Brush Sticks: Brush the tops of the pastry sticks with the egg wash to give them a golden color when baked.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake: Place the prepared sticks on the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Dipping Sauce: Serve with mustard, marinara sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Ham and Cheese Sticks (per stick, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Stick
Calories	180
Protein	7g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	14g
Fiber	1g

Tips for Customization

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as gouda, pepper jack, or havarti for unique flavors.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Option: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Ham and Cheese Sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

Ham and Cheese Sticks are a simple yet satisfying snack that combines the flavors of ham and cheese in a flaky pastry. They are perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a hit!

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the ham with turkey, chicken, or salami for different flavor profiles.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.