I don't think I'll ever get sick of these. They're so delicious.

There's something incredibly comforting about the combination of ham and cheese, especially when it's baked to crispy, golden perfection. These baked cheesy ham and cheese bites are a nod to my childhood, where quick and delicious snacks were a staple in our busy household. Perfect for a quick lunch, a party appetizer, or a cozy movie night snack, these bites are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. The gooey cheese and savory ham wrapped in a crispy crust make them irresistible.

These cheesy ham and cheese bites pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a more substantial meal. If you're serving them as an appetizer, consider adding a platter of fresh veggies and a creamy dip to balance out the richness. For a fun twist, serve them with a side of honey mustard or marinara sauce for dipping.

Servings: 4

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup of diced ham
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.

Spread the Dijon mustard evenly over the pastry.

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and diced ham over the mustard layer.

Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Carefully roll the pastry into a log, starting from one edge.

Slice the log into 1-inch pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Brush the tops with the beaten egg to ensure a golden finish.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bites are golden brown and crispy.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

For a vegetarian version, swap the ham for sautéed mushrooms or spinach. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, use pre-sliced deli ham and cheese to make assembly quicker. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling before rolling up the pastry.