These ham and cheese bites are a tasty treat! They are made with crispy pastry filled with savory ham and gooey cheese. Perfect for snacks or parties!
Honestly, who can resist these little bites? They’re so good that they vanish quickly! I love serving them with a dipping sauce for some extra fun.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Browns: Frozen shredded hash browns work great here, but you can make your own by grating fresh potatoes. Just soak them in water to remove excess starch, then dry them thoroughly. This makes for an extra crispy bite!
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness, but feel free to mix it up! Cheddar adds a sharper flavor, or you could try provolone for something different. If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based cheese alternative!
Ham: Deli ham is easy, but leftover cooked ham or even turkey or chicken can work well too. Just make sure they’re cut into small pieces so they fit nicely in the cups.
Onion: You can skip the onion if you’re not a fan! Alternatively, consider using green onions or chives for a milder flavor. They also add a nice pop of color.
How Do I Ensure My Bites Have a Crispy Texture?
Achieving that perfect crispiness is key! Start by cooking your hash brown crusts long enough so they’re golden brown before adding the cheese and ham. Here are a few tips:
- Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized portions.
- Press the hash brown mixture firmly into the cups; this helps it stay together and get crispy.
- Don’t rush the baking process; allow them to bake until golden and crispy.
- Let them cool slightly before removing them from the tin to help them hold their shape.
With these tips and substitutions, you’ll create delicious ham and cheese bites every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Ham and Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 3 cups shredded hash browns (thawed if frozen)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Cheese:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
For the Filling:
- 6 slices deli ham, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
Miscellaneous:
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing the muffin tin
- Dried parsley or Italian seasoning for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 10 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at around 35 minutes in total. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or a bit of oil. This will help the bites come out easily later on!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded hash browns, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, chopped onion (if you’re using it), eggs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Form the Cups:
Take about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the hash brown mixture and press it firmly into each mini muffin cup. You want to form little cup shapes that go up the sides and cover the bottom.
4. Bake the Crusts:
Pop the muffin tin into the oven and bake the hash brown cups for about 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn!
5. Add Cheese:
Once the crusts are baked, take them out of the oven. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly into each hash brown cup, making them extra cheesy!
6. Add Ham:
Next, take the small pieces of ham and place them on top of the cheese in each cup. This adds delicious flavor and makes these bites even more satisfying.
7. Final Bake:
Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The smell will be amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once done, take the tin out of the oven and let the bites cool for a few minutes. Carefully remove them from the tin, and garnish with dried parsley or Italian seasoning if you like. Serve them warm and enjoy your tasty ham and cheese bites!
These crispy, cheesy treats are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Hash Browns?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen hash browns, just be sure to thaw them first. You can leave them in the fridge overnight or microwave them for a quick defrost. Pat them dry before using to avoid excess moisture in your bites!
What Can I Substitute for Ham?
If you prefer a different protein, turkey, chicken, or even cooked bacon can be great alternatives to ham. Just make sure to cut them into small pieces, similar to the size of deli ham, for easy filling!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the hash brown cups a day in advance. Bake them, then let them cool and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just add the cheese and ham, then reheat in the oven until warm and bubbly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re hot and the cheese is melty again.
