Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Sticks

Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistibly Snackable!
Looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer or an easy lunch idea that feels just a little fancy? These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Sticks are here to save the day! Buttery, golden layers of puff pastry hug savory slices of ham and gooey melted cheese—it’s like your favorite deli sandwich turned into a flaky, pull-apart snack.
Whether you’re serving these at a party, packing them in lunchboxes, or enjoying them as a cozy weekend nibble, they’re bound to disappear in minutes. Bonus? They’re super customizable and come together in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 package puff pastry (2 sheets, thawed if frozen)
- ½ lb thinly sliced deli ham
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or any melty cheese you love—cheddar, Swiss, provolone, etc.)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, adds a lovely tang)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra savory punch)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unfold the puff pastry sheets onto a lightly floured surface. If the sheets are large, cut each one into rectangles about 3–4 inches wide. You should get about 6–8 rectangles per sheet depending on the size.
Tip: If your puff pastry is still a bit stiff, let it rest at room temperature for 5–10 minutes until pliable, but not too soft.
3. Add the Fillings
If using, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each pastry rectangle—this adds a hint of zippy flavor that pairs beautifully with the ham and cheese.
Layer a slice or two of ham on each rectangle, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese.
4. Roll & Slice
Roll each rectangle up lengthwise, like a snug little log. Then, slice each roll into 1-inch wide pieces to create bite-sized sticks.
5. Add the Egg Wash & Seasonings
Place the rolls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Brush the tops with the beaten egg, which will help them bake up golden and shiny.
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) for that savory boost.
6. Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown, puffed up, and the cheese is delightfully melted.
Tip: Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes—ovens vary and you want that perfect golden crisp without overbaking!
7. Garnish & Serve
Let the sticks cool slightly on the pan for a few minutes. If you’d like, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve warm and enjoy these melty, flaky delights!
Serving Ideas:
- Appetizer Board: Add them to a charcuterie spread for a fun finger food.
- Lunchbox Favorite: Kids and adults love them cold or reheated!
- Brunch Sidekick: Pair with scrambled eggs and fruit for a full meal.
Yield: About 12–16 sticks
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Estimated Calories: ~150–180 per stick (depending on cheese and pastry brand)
Flaky, cheesy, and filled with savory ham—these puff pastry sticks are as fun to make as they are to eat.