These Ham and Cheese Bites are perfect little snacks that are super easy to make! They have a crispy outside and a gooey cheese center, packed with delicious ham.
Honestly, they’re great for parties or just a cozy night at home—who can resist that warm cheesy goodness? I love whipping them up for movie night, and they always disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I like using soft white sandwich bread because it creates a nice cup when pressed. If you want something heartier, whole wheat bread or sourdough works too, though you’ll need to adjust the baking time slightly.
Ham: Deli ham is easy and convenient, but you can use leftover holiday ham or even turkey for a leaner option. Try smoked ham for a different flavor!
Cheese: Mozzarella adds great stretch, but Swiss is tasty too! If you want to mix it up, cheddar or pepper jack can deliver a nice kick.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs. If you don’t have it, crushed crackers or even regular breadcrumbs can work, but may not achieve the same level of crunch.
How Do I Make Sure My Bread Cups Hold Their Shape?
Shaping the bread cups right is key! Start by flattening the slices well with a rolling pin to make them pliable. Press the bread firmly into the muffin tin; this helps it hold the shape as it bakes.
- Use a non-stick muffin tin or grease it well to prevent sticking.
- Fill each cup carefully with ham and cheese, but don’t overfill—too much can cause the bread to lose shape.
- Monitor your bites in the oven. If they start browning too quickly, cover them loosely with foil until they’re cooked through.
Ham And Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 slices of white sandwich bread (crusts removed)
- 6 oz deli ham, sliced into small pieces or strips
- 6 oz mozzarella or Swiss cheese, sliced or shredded
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing muffin tin
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 12-15 minutes to bake. With a total of around 30 minutes, you can have these delicious bites ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While your oven heats up, grease your mini muffin tin with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Bread
Flatten each slice of bread with a rolling pin until it’s nice and thin. This will help the bread mold better into the muffin tin.
3. Make the Egg Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until combined. This will help your bites stay moist.
4. Prepare the Breadcrumbs
In another shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the Italian seasoning and garlic powder. This adds flavor and crunch to your bites!
5. Shape the Bread Cups
Dip each flattened bread slice into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Then coat it in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Press each slice firmly into the mini muffin tin cups, creating a little cup shape with a hollow center.
6. Fill the Cups
Add a piece or two of ham into each bread cup. Then top with your chosen cheese, pressing down gently to secure it.
7. Add a Decorative Touch
If you like, you can roll up small pieces of ham and place them in the center for a fun and decorative look!
8. Bake the Bites
Pop your muffin tin in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bread cups are golden brown and the cheese is melty and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
9. Cool and Serve
Let the bites cool slightly in the tin before gently removing them. Serve warm and enjoy these tasty, cheesy snacks!
These crispy bread cups filled with melty cheese and savory ham make perfect bite-sized treats for any occasion!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Bread Instead of White Bread?
Absolutely! Whole wheat bread adds a nice nutty flavor and is a healthier option. Just be sure to flatten it well so it molds into the muffin tin.
Can I Freeze These Ham and Cheese Bites?
Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs. However, the texture may be slightly less crispy. Alternatively, crushed crackers or even ground oats can work as a substitute for a different crunch!
How Do I Make These Bite-Sized Treats Vegetarian?
To make these bites vegetarian, simply omit the ham and replace it with sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also add extra cheese or a flavorful herb mix to enhance the taste!