Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks
Ingredients (Makes 4-6 stacks):
1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), thawed
6-8 slices of ham (thinly sliced, such as deli ham or prosciutto)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, or a combination)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing, optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
Use a sharp knife or a round cookie cutter to cut the puff pastry into circles or squares, depending on your preference. You’ll need about 2 pieces per stack (one for the base and one for the top).
3. Assemble the Stacks:
Place a puff pastry piece on the baking sheet.
Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (optional) on the pastry base, if using.
Place a slice or two of ham on top of the pastry.
Sprinkle about 2-3 tablespoons of shredded cheese over the ham.
Top with another puff pastry piece to form a stack. Press down gently to hold everything together.
Repeat the process for the remaining stacks.
4. Brush with Egg Wash:
Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the top of each puff pastry stack with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden, glossy finish once baked.
For extra flavor and a golden crisp, you can brush the sides of the stacks with melted butter or olive oil.
5. Bake:
Place the stacks in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
Once baked, remove the stacks from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor, and serve warm.
Tips & Variations:
Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix and match different types of cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or even brie for a unique twist.
Add Veggies: You can add some finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions between the ham and cheese for extra flavor and texture.
Spices: Sprinkle a bit of garlic powder, onion powder, or dried oregano on top of the puff pastry before baking to add an extra layer of flavor.
For Extra Crispy Texture: If you prefer an extra crunch, you can bake the stacks longer for a crispier texture. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Q&A Section:
Q1: Can I use a different kind of ham?
Yes! You can use any type of ham you prefer, such as smoked ham, prosciutto, or even turkey for a variation. Thinly sliced deli meats work best for this recipe.
Q2: Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the stacks ahead of time, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. However, it’s best to bake them fresh to maintain their crispiness.
Q3: Can I freeze these?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled stacks before baking. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven directly from the freezer and bake for a few extra minutes until golden.
Q4: Can I use puff pastry sheets or phyllo dough?
This recipe is best with puff pastry for its light, flaky texture. Phyllo dough can be used, but it will be thinner and less fluffy, so you’ll need to brush each layer with butter or oil to create a crisp texture.
Q5: Can I add mustard or sauce to the inside of the puff pastry?
Absolutely! A small dollop of mustard or even a creamy sauce (such as béchamel or a cheese sauce) can be spread inside before layering the ham and cheese for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Side Dish: Serve these crispy stacks with a side of mixed greens, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Dipping Sauces: Pair with dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy ketchup for an extra burst of flavor.