We’ve always been big fans of the Ham Puffs Pampered Chef Recipe – a savory twist on a classic appetizer that’s perfect for quick gatherings. Originating from Pampered Chef’s creative kitchen tools and ideas it’s become our go-to for effortless entertaining.
These fluffy bites pack a flavorful punch with simple ingredients that deliver big on taste. We’re confident you’ll love how this recipe adds a touch of elegance to any occasion without the fuss.
Ingredients
In our Ham Puffs Pampered Chef Recipe, we gather high-quality ingredients that deliver a savory, flaky appetizer perfect for effortless entertaining. We’ve organized this list in the order of use to streamline your preparation, ensuring each component contributes to the dish’s irresistible flavor and texture.
- Diced ham: 1 cup (fully cooked and finely diced for even distribution in the puffs)
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: 1 can (8 ounces, unrolled and separated into triangles as the base)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup (sharp variety for a bold, melty contrast that enhances the ham’s smokiness)
- Cream cheese: 4 ounces (softened at room temperature to mix smoothly and add creamy richness)
- Finely chopped green onions: ¼ cup (fresh and vibrant for a subtle crunch and mild onion flavor)
- Large eggs: 2 (beaten lightly to bind the filling and promote a golden bake)
- Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon (for a tangy kick that ties the ingredients together)
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon (to infuse aromatic depth without overwhelming the other flavors)
- Salt and black pepper: ¼ teaspoon each (to taste, for seasoning and balancing the overall profile)
This selection ensures our Ham Puffs remain simple yet sophisticated, using everyday items to create a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Required Tools
To prepare our Ham Puffs Pampered Chef Recipe with ease and precision, we recommend gathering these essential tools. This ensures seamless preparation from mixing to baking, building on the ingredients we’ve already listed for a smooth cooking experience.
Key Tools List
We organize these tools in the order of use, starting with prep and moving to baking, to keep our workflow efficient:
- Measuring cups and spoons: These are crucial for accurately measuring ingredients like shredded cheddar cheese and Dijon mustard, ensuring our puffs turn out perfectly balanced and flavorful.
- Cutting board and sharp knife: Ideal for dicing ham and finely chopping green onions, allowing us to handle prep work quickly and safely for that fresh, savory bite.
- Mixing bowl (medium-sized): We use this to combine cream cheese, eggs, and seasonings, creating a smooth mixture that forms the heart of our appetizing Ham Puffs.
- Muffin tin or baking sheet: A muffin tin works best for shaping the crescent roll dough into individual puffs, giving them that elegant, bite-sized form that wows at gatherings.
- Whisk or mixing spoon: Essential for blending ingredients evenly, such as garlic powder and green onions, to achieve a uniform texture without lumps.
- Oven thermometer (optional): While not always necessary, this helps verify our oven is at the precise temperature for baking, guaranteeing golden-brown results every time.
By having these tools on hand, we can execute the recipe confidently and efficiently, turning simple ingredients into a sophisticated appetizer.
Instructions
We guide you through preparing our Ham Puffs with confidence and precision, turning simple ingredients into a savory, flaky appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. Let’s break down the process into clear, manageable steps for flawless results.
Prep Work
First, we gather and prepare our ingredients to ensure everything is ready for assembly. Start by dicing 1 cup of ham into small, even pieces on your cutting board—this creates the hearty base that adds a smoky, savory flavor to each puff. Next, finely chop 2 green onions to release their fresh, peppery essence, which brightens the mix.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, we combine the wet ingredients for a creamy filling: soften 4 ounces of cream cheese in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, then whisk in 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder until smooth and well-blended. The mixture should have a rich, tangy aroma that hints at the dish’s bold taste.
Add the dry elements: stir in the diced ham, chopped green onions, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This step blends the textures and flavors, creating a filling that’s irresistibly cheesy and hearty—imagine the gooey melt of cheese contrasting with the ham’s tender bite.
Cook
Once prepped, we move to cooking to achieve that golden, crispy exterior. Preheat your oven to 375°F using the oven thermometer for accuracy, ensuring even baking that makes the puffs rise perfectly.
While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheet or muffin tin by lightly greasing it with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and helps create a flaky finish. For best results, bake in batches if needed—aim for 12 puffs per tin.
Place the assembled puffs in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and the filling bubbles enticingly. Rotate the tin halfway through for uniform cooking; the irresistible aroma of baked ham and cheese will signal they’re nearly done, filling your kitchen with a warm, comforting scent.
Assemble
With ingredients prepped and oven ready, we assemble the puffs for that perfect handheld treat. Unroll the refrigerated crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles, then spoon about 2 tablespoons of the ham mixture onto the wide end of each triangle.
Carefully roll each triangle from the wide end to the tip, enclosing the filling securely to prevent leaks during baking. Arrange the rolls in your greased muffin tin or on a baking sheet, spacing them 1-2 inches apart for even expansion.
Gently press the edges to seal and shape them into puffs, creating a neat, compact form that will crisp up beautifully. At this stage, the puffs should look inviting and ready to bake, promising a delightful contrast of flaky dough and savory center.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Ham Puffs Pampered Chef Recipe even more convenient for busy gatherings, we recommend these make-ahead steps that preserve the flaky texture and savory flavors without compromising quality. This approach allows us to prepare components in advance, ensuring effortless entertaining while keeping the appetizers fresh and delicious.
Preparing the Filling Ahead
We can streamline our prep by making the filling up to 24 hours in advance. Start by combining the cream cheese, diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped green onions, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and beaten eggs in a mixing bowl as outlined in the earlier steps. Once mixed into a hearty, creamy blend, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. This keeps the filling’s rich, tangy notes intact, ready for quick assembly later.
Assembling the Puffs in Advance
For further convenience, we suggest assembling the Ham Puffs up to 8 hours ahead or freezing them for longer storage. After preparing the crescent dough and filling, spoon the mixture into the dough portions and shape them as directed. Place the assembled puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 8 hours to maintain their light, golden potential. If freezing, arrange them on the sheet first to flash-freeze for 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method ensures the puffs retain their flaky layers and savory bite when baked fresh.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Proper storage is key to preserving the quality of our Ham Puffs. Here’s a quick overview in table format for optimal times and methods:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 8 hours | Keep covered to prevent drying; bake directly from fridge, adding 2-3 minutes to bake time for a crisp exterior. |
| Freezing | Up to 1 month | Label with date; thaw in fridge overnight before baking to avoid sogginess and ensure even cooking. |
| Reheating | N/A | If baking from frozen, add 5-7 minutes to the original 375°F oven time until golden brown and heated through, enhancing the aromatic, cheesy aroma. |
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions, we can enjoy the effortless elegance of our Ham Puffs Pampered Chef Recipe at any occasion, saving time without sacrificing that irresistible, savory appeal.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored this Ham Puffs recipe with us. It’s a versatile favorite that brings effortless elegance to any gathering without the fuss.
By incorporating it into your routine you’ll discover how simple ingredients create memorable moments we all cherish. Let’s make every occasion a little more special with these delightful bites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ham Puffs Pampered Chef Recipe?
The Ham Puffs Pampered Chef Recipe is a simple, savory appetizer perfect for quick gatherings. It features diced ham, crescent roll dough, and a creamy filling with cheese, green onions, and seasonings, baked to golden perfection. This easy dish adds elegant flavor to any occasion without much effort.
What ingredients are needed for Ham Puffs?
You’ll need diced ham, refrigerated crescent roll dough, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, chopped green onions, eggs, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and basic seasonings. These everyday items combine for a sophisticated yet simple appetizer, organized for easy prep.
What tools are required to make Ham Puffs?
Essential tools include measuring cups, a cutting board, mixing bowl, muffin tin or baking sheet, and a whisk. An optional oven thermometer helps ensure accurate baking temperature, making the process seamless and efficient for home cooks.
How do I prepare Ham Puffs step by step?
Start by preheating the oven to 375°F and prepping ingredients like dicing ham and chopping onions. Mix a creamy filling with cream cheese, egg, mustard, and garlic powder, then add dry ingredients. Roll dough around the filling and bake until golden brown for a flaky, savory result.
Can I make Ham Puffs ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container. Assemble the puffs up to 8 hours ahead or freeze them for longer storage. This allows for easy entertaining while keeping the flaky texture and flavors intact.
How should I store and reheat Ham Puffs?
Store baked Ham Puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy. For frozen puffs, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes for the best taste and texture.
Are there any tips for the best results with Ham Puffs?
Use fresh ingredients and ensure even dough wrapping for a flaky exterior. Preheat your oven accurately and avoid overfilling to prevent spills. For make-ahead, let fillings chill before assembling to maintain shape and flavor during baking.