Delicious Crispy Beef Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

ByMia Harper
Crispy beef ham and cheese puff pastry stacks ready to serve

Delicious Crispy Beef Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks deliver a satisfying crunch with an irresistible cheesy, meaty filling. This delightful dish combines the flakiness of puff pastry with a savory mixture of ground beef, ham, and cheese, making it perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner. Easy to whip up and sure to impress, it’s a meal that will keep everyone coming back for more!

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 380
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 600mg

Why Make This Delicious Crispy Beef Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

These puff pastry stacks are a fantastic choice for their versatility and flavor. The combination of beef, ham, and cheese makes each bite packed with protein and flavor, while the flaky pastry provides an airy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich filling. They are simple enough for weeknight dinners yet fancy enough to serve at a gathering, offering something for everyone’s palate.

How to Make Delicious Crispy Beef Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

Ingredients:

  • 1 package puff pastry sheets
  • 1 cup cooked ground beef
  • 1 cup diced ham
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or Swiss)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  • Step 1: Preheat the Oven

    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to make the pastry crispy.

  • Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

    Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut them into squares, about 4×4 inches. This will be the base for your delicious pockets.

  • Step 3: Create the Filling

    In a medium bowl, mix together the cooked ground beef, diced ham, and shredded cheese. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

  • Step 4: Assemble the Stacks

    Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each pastry square, careful not to overfill. Fold the pastry over to create a pocket, then seal the edges tightly by pressing down with a fork.

  • Step 5: Apply the Egg Wash

    Brush the tops of each puff pastry pocket with the beaten egg. This step adds a beautiful golden color and extra shine during baking.

  • Step 6: Bake in the Oven

    Place the filled pastry pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.

  • Step 7: Serve Warm

    Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture.

How to Serve Delicious Crispy Beef Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

These delicious stacks are best served warm as a main dish or hearty appetizer. Pair them with a fresh salad or a side of dipping sauce, such as ranch or marinara, for an extra burst of flavor. They also make a fantastic snack during game nights or movie marathons!

How to Store Delicious Crispy Beef Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

Store any leftover puff pastry stacks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, consider reheating them in the oven rather than the microwave for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Delicious Crispy Beef Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

  • For a little more flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to your filling.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese to mix things up; mozzarella for pulling cheese or pepper jack for a kick!
  • Always ensure the filling is not too hot when sealing the pastry to prevent it from getting soggy.
  • If you want to add a little crunch, consider incorporating finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions into the filling.

Delicious Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef and ham with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious vegetarian version.
  • Spicy Twist: Add jalapeño or spicy sausage to the filling for a kick of heat.
  • Sweet Treat: For a dessert version, use chocolate spread or fruit preserves as a filling, and sprinkle with powdered sugar after baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I freeze these puff pastry stacks?
    Yes! You can freeze the assembled but unbaked pastry stacks. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

  • What type of cheese works best?
    Cheddar and Swiss are excellent choices, but feel free to use your favorite melting cheese like mozzarella or gouda.

  • Can I use store-bought ground beef?
    Yes, using pre-cooked ground beef saves time. Just ensure it’s heated through before mixing with other ingredients.

  • How can I ensure my puff pastry is crispy?
    Make sure your oven is fully preheated, and avoid overfilling the pastry pockets to ensure they cook evenly.

  • What can I serve with these stacks?
    They go wonderfully with a side salad, a dipping sauce, or even a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Delicious Crispy Beef Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks are a delightful dish guaranteed to be a hit at your table. Their golden crispy exterior enveloping a warm, savory filling is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a family dinner, these stacks promise to please everyone. Give them a try, and enjoy the compliments that follow!

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