These ham and cheese bites are the perfect snack or appetizer! With golden, flaky pastry and a gooey cheese center, every bite is warm and cheesy goodness.
They’re super easy to make—just fill, fold, and bake! I like to serve them with a fun dipping sauce, and trust me, they always disappear fast at parties!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheeses: I use mozzarella and Parmesan for a nice flavor and meltiness. If you’re out of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a vegan option!
Deli Ham: I prefer regular deli ham for its convenience and taste. Turkey or chicken ham works well too for a lighter option.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These spices add great flavor. If you enjoy fresh herbs, feel free to use minced garlic and finely diced onions instead.
Greasing the Muffin Tin: I find that using cooking spray helps prevent sticking. You can also use melted butter or oil on a paper towel to grease it nicely!
How Do I Get the Perfect Cheese Cups?
Creating those delightful cheese cups is all about layering and baking. Here’s how to nail this step:
- Make sure to press the cheese mixture firmly into the muffin tin to form a solid base.
- Baking at the right temperature melts the cheese without burning it—keep an eye on them while baking!
- Let them cool a bit before removing to avoid breaking them apart.
With these tips, your ham and cheese bites will turn out deliciously every time!
Ham And Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 12 slices of deli ham
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Non-stick cooking spray or oil (for greasing muffin tin)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 10-15 minutes for baking. So in total, you’ll spend around 30 minutes to make these delicious ham and cheese bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, take a mini muffin tin and lightly grease it with non-stick cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Fill the Muffin Cups:
Now, take about 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture and place it into each mini muffin cup. Press the mixture down gently to create a little cup shape along the bottom and sides.
4. Bake the Cheese Cups:
Carefully pop the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and starts to turn golden brown.
5. Prepare the Ham:
While the cheese cups are baking, take each slice of ham and cut it into smaller pieces. You can roll them into little rose shapes or spirals for a fun presentation.
6. Create Space for the Ham:
Once the cheese cups are done baking, take the muffin tin out of the oven. Using a spoon, gently press down the center of each melted cheese cup to make space for the ham.
7. Add the Ham:
Now, place one rolled piece of ham into the center of each cheese bite. Pop the tin back into the oven and bake for another 3-4 minutes until the ham is warmed through and everything is bubbly.
8. Cool and Serve:
Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the bites cool slightly before carefully prying them out with a spoon or fork. They can be a bit delicate, so take your time!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve the bites warm and watch them disappear!
These ham and cheese bites are cheesy, savory, and perfect finger foods for parties, game days, or any time you want a tasty snack! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan create a delightful combination, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick!
What Can I Substitute for Deli Ham?
If you prefer not to use ham, turkey or chicken slices work great as alternatives. For a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms or spinach, or skip the meat entirely and add extra cheese and veggies!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ham and cheese bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the cheese cups and even add the ham in advance. Just cover the muffin tin with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them—perfect for party planning!
