Indulge in the deliciousness of Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks! This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The great flavors of ham, cheese, and flaky puff pastry come together perfectly in every bite.
- With a quick prep time, you can have these delightful puff pastry stacks ready in no time.
- These stacks are perfect for meal prep, making them a convenient option for busy days.
Ingredient Notes:
- Frozen puff pastry sheets (thawed): Provides a buttery and flaky base for the stacks.
- Ham slices: Adds a savory and salty flavor to the dish.
- Cheese slices (Swiss, Gruyere, or Cheddar recommended): Melts beautifully and complements the ham.
- Egg and milk: Used to create an egg wash for a golden finish.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the stacks.
- Salt and pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Optional: Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet.
- Roll out puff pastry sheets and cut into squares.
- Prepare egg wash.
- Layer ham, cheese, mustard, salt, pepper, and herbs on puff pastry squares.
- Seal edges with another puff pastry square and crimp with a fork.
- Brush with egg wash and bake until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Helpful Tips:
- For a twist, try adding caramelized onions or roasted red peppers to the stacks.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Swap out the ham for turkey or roast beef for a different flavor profile.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use high-quality cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- Don’t skip the egg wash step, as it helps achieve a crispy and golden crust.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair these Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks with a fresh green salad, a side of fruit, and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To reheat, place the stacks in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crispiness of the puff pastry.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze these puff pastry stacks before baking?
- Yes, you can assemble the stacks and freeze them. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
- Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses to customize the flavor.
- How can I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
- Make sure to bake the stacks on a preheated baking sheet to ensure a crispy bottom.
- Can I make these stacks ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the stacks ahead of time and bake them when ready to serve.
Conclusion:
Try out these Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks for a delightful and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress your taste buds. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy the delicious results!
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Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Various
Description
These crispy ham and cheese puff pastry stacks are a delightful combination of flaky puff pastry, savory ham, gooey cheese, and a hint of Dijon mustard. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package (approximately 17.3 ounces) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of cheese (Swiss, Gruyere, or Cheddar recommended)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut into squares.
- Assemble Stacks: Layer ham, cheese, and Dijon mustard on each pastry square. Season and add fresh herbs.
- Seal Edges: Top with another pastry square, press to seal, and crimp the edges.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the top of each stack with egg wash.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients like different types of cheese or additional toppings.
- These puff pastry stacks can be served as appetizers or paired with a salad for a light meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stack
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
