How to Make Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

Creating a delicious snack or appetizer is easy, especially when you make crispy ham & cheese puff pastry stacks. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or even a quick lunch. With a flaky texture and savory flavor, these stacks will surely impress your family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

Puff pastry stacks are delightful and versatile, making them an excellent choice for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving something tasty, these crispy stacks are a crowd-pleaser. The combination of ham and cheese wrapped in a flaky pastry elevates the usual snack fare, providing a satisfying crunch and mouthwatering flavor. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and effort.

How to Make Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

Follow this easy guide, and you’ll have delicious ham & cheese puff pastry stacks ready in no time.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
• 6 ounces of deli ham (thinly sliced)
• 6 ounces of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or your preferred type)
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut the pastry into rectangles, approximately 3×4 inches in size.

3. Layer the Ingredients: On half of each rectangle, Layer the sliced ham evenly, followed by a slice of cheese. Sprinkle some salt and pepper for added flavor.

4. Fold and Seal: Fold the other half of the puff pastry over the filled side to create a pocket. Press the edges firmly to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.

5. Apply the Egg Wash: Brush the top of each pastry with the beaten egg to give it a golden color while baking.

6. Bake: Place the stacked pastries onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are puffed and golden brown.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips for Success Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

1. Keep it Cold: Ensure that the puff pastry remains cold until you’re ready to roll it out. This helps achieve a flakier texture while baking.

2. Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing the pastry with ham and cheese, as this can lead to leaks and prevent proper cooking.

3. Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality ham and cheese to enhance the flavor of your stacks.

4. Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like Gouda or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.

5. Serve Fresh: These stacks are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Reheating may not yield the same crispy texture.

Flavor Variations Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

1. Veggie Delight: Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for a delightful vegetarian option.

2. Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeño slices or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

3. Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or oregano into the ham layers for an aromatic twist.

4. Sweet and Savory: Try adding a layer of apple or pear slices alongside the ham for a sweet touch.

Serving Suggestions Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

These savory stacks pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or some homemade dipping sauce like honey mustard or aioli. They also make a delightful addition to a charcuterie board, creating a gourmet touch to any spread.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

To store leftovers, place the cooled stacks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stacks before baking. Wrap each stack in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, extending the cooking time slightly.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|————-|———-|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates| 18g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 500mg |

FAQ About Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

Can I use store-bought puff pastry?

Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry is a time-saver and makes this recipe super easy. Just ensure it’s thawed before rolling.

Can I substitute the ham with another protein?

Yes! You can definitely substitute ham with turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein for a different twist.

How do I reheat the leftover stacks?

To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until they are warm and crispy again.

How can I make these stacks vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and add more vegetables or alternate proteins like tofu, tempeh, or lentils.

Are these perfect for meal prep?

Yes! These stacks can be made ahead of time, making them a great option for meal prep. Assemble them and freeze, then bake whenever you’re ready.

Final Thoughts

Crispy ham & cheese puff pastry stacks are a delightful treat, perfect for anyone seeking a delicious snack or appetizer. With their flaky layers and savory filling, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Remember to experiment with different flavors and enjoy these tasty treats fresh from the oven! Happy cooking!

Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

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• Author: recipesforcook
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

Delicious crispy ham & cheese puff pastry stacks, perfect for gatherings, cozy evenings, or a quick lunch.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
• 6 ounces of deli ham (thinly sliced)
• 6 ounces of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or your preferred type)
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut the pastry into rectangles, approximately 3×4 inches in size.
3. On half of each rectangle, layer the sliced ham evenly, followed by a slice of cheese. Sprinkle some salt and pepper for added flavor.
4. Fold the other half of the puff pastry over the filled side to create a pocket. Press the edges firmly to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
5. Brush the top of each pastry with the beaten egg to give it a golden color while baking.
6. Place the stacked pastries onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are puffed and golden brown.
7. Remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Keep the puff pastry cold for a flakier texture and do not overfill with ham and cheese. Use quality ingredients for the best flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: European

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stack
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 70mg