Puffy Ham And Cheese Bundles
Ingredients
½ pound ham, shaved thin
2 egg yolks
4 tbsp Dijon Mustard
2 cups Cheddar Cheese, grated
2 sheets Puff Pastry
Oil Spray
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350*
Line two baking trays with parchment paper
Lay out the Puff Pastry and cut into 3 ½ inch squares, then lay out in a diamond shape
Spread ½ tsp Dijon Mustard across the center of the diamond shape of each square
Top the mustard with some of the ham and sprinkle some of the grated cheese on top of the ham
Put a dab of egg yolk on the top corner of the pastry
Pull the bottom corner up and over the filling
Then pull the top corner down and over the center. The corner should be the center of the puff. Seal by gently pressing the egg yolk corner to the bottom pastry
Carefully place the Ham and Cheese Puff on the baking tray
Continue with all the squares until completed.
Brush the tops with the egg yolk and place in the oven
Bake for 15 minutes, or until they are a nice golden brown in color
Serve while still warm, (although these do taste good cold too)
Enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 280-320
Fat: 18 grams | Protein: 10 grams | Carbohydrates: 20 grams | Fiber: less than 1 gram | Sodium: 500 milligrams
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for cheddar cheese, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese varieties.
Swiss, Gouda, or mozzarella can be delicious alternatives.
Can I prepare these bundles ahead of time and bake them later?
Yes, you can assemble the bundles ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
Simply brush them with egg yolk just before baking to achieve a golden brown color.
Can I freeze these bundles for later use?
Yes, these bundles freeze well. After assembling them, place them on a baking tray and freeze until solid.
Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container.
When ready to bake, simply place them directly in the oven from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I substitute the ham with another protein?
Certainly! If you prefer, you can substitute the ham with cooked bacon, turkey, or even shredded chicken for a different flavor profile.
What can I serve with these bundles?
These bundles are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides.
Consider serving them with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
They also make a delicious appetizer or snack on their own.
Can I use pre-made puff pastry sheets for this recipe?
Yes, using store-bought puff pastry sheets is a convenient option. Just ensure they are thawed according to the package instructions before using.
What can I substitute for Dijon Mustard if I don’t have any?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, you can use regular mustard or even honey mustard for a slightly different flavor.
Can I make these bundles smaller for appetizers?
Absolutely! You can cut the puff pastry into smaller squares and adjust the amount of filling accordingly to make bite-sized appetizer versions.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?
Ensure the bundles are properly sealed by pressing the edges together firmly.
This will help prevent any filling from leaking out while they bake.
Can I add additional ingredients to the filling?
Yes, feel free to customize the filling to your liking.
You can add ingredients like diced bell peppers, caramelized onions, or cooked bacon for extra flavor and texture.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Cheddar?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese adds a delicious flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Swiss, mozzarella, or Gouda for different taste variations.
How long do these bundles stay fresh?
These bundles are best enjoyed fresh from the oven.
However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze these bundles before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the bundles and freeze them before baking.
Place them on a baking tray in a single layer until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container.
Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with these bundles for a complete meal?
These bundles pair well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of soup for a satisfying meal.
They also make a great addition to brunch menus alongside fresh fruit or a side of scrambled eggs.
Can I make these bundles ahead of time for entertaining?
Yes, you can assemble the bundles ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
Brush them with egg wash just before baking for a golden finish.
They make a fantastic appetizer for parties and gatherings.