Ham and Cheese Sticks: A Savory Delight You’ll Love

Few snacks bring the comfort and joy of warm, cheesy treats fresh from the oven. Ham and cheese sticks are one of those recipes that feel like a hug in food form. They’re easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a game night, planning a quick lunch, or simply indulging in a satisfying snack.

Imagine biting into a buttery, golden crescent roll filled with savory ham and gooey melted cheese. The combination is as irresistible as it sounds. Let’s get started on how you can whip up this delightful treat in no time.

Why Ham and Cheese Sticks Are the Perfect Snack

Ham and cheese sticks aren’t just tasty—they’re incredibly versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer, pack them for a picnic, or even use them as a quick, on-the-go breakfast.

They also cater to almost every age group. Kids love their cheesy goodness, and adults appreciate their rich flavor profile enhanced by a buttery Dijon glaze with poppy seeds and onion powder.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delectable ham and cheese sticks:

Ingredient	Quantity
Crescent dough sheets	2 tubes
Deli-sliced ham	1 lb.
Cheddar cheese sticks	8
Butter, melted	¼ cup
Worcestershire sauce	1 tsp
Dijon mustard	½ Tbsp
Dried minced onion or onion powder	½ Tbsp
Poppy seeds	½ Tbsp

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ham and Cheese Sticks

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out all your ingredients on the counter to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Open the crescent dough sheets and unroll them onto a flat surface.
2. Cut each sheet into 4 rectangles, giving you 8 pieces in total.

Step 3: Add Ham and Cheese

1. Lay a slice or two of deli ham on each rectangle, ensuring it covers the dough without overhanging.
2. Place a cheddar cheese stick on top of the ham.

Step 4: Roll Them Up

1. Starting from the short end, carefully roll each rectangle into a tight log, ensuring the ham and cheese are sealed inside.
2. Pinch the edges of the dough to prevent any filling from spilling out during baking.

Step 5: Make the Butter Glaze

1. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion (or onion powder), and poppy seeds.
2. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 6: Brush and Bake

1. Place the rolled ham and cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Generously brush the butter glaze over the tops of each roll.
3. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and puffed up.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Remove the ham and cheese sticks from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm when the cheese is perfectly melted.

Tips for Making Perfect Ham and Cheese Sticks

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, buttery crescent dough and high-quality ham and cheese for the best flavor.
2. Seal Tightly: Pinching the edges of the dough ensures that the cheese doesn’t ooze out during baking.
3. Customize the Filling: You can experiment with different types of cheese or even add extras like sliced pickles or mustard inside the rolls.
4. Don’t Skip the Glaze: The butter glaze elevates the flavor and gives the rolls a beautiful golden finish.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 Stick)
Calories	250
Protein	12g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	15g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	480mg

Creative Ways to Serve Ham and Cheese Sticks

• Party Platter: Pair them with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or marinara.
• Lunchbox Addition: Wrap them in foil for a tasty lunch or snack on the go.
• Breakfast Twist: Serve them alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a complete breakfast.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the ham and cheese sticks and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze the baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

3. What other fillings can I use?
Try swapping the ham for turkey, roast beef, or chicken. You can also experiment with mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack cheese.

4. Can I use regular crescent rolls instead of dough sheets?
Yes, but you’ll need to pinch the perforated edges of the rolls together to create a seamless sheet.

5. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Ensure the dough is sealed tightly around the filling, and avoid overfilling the rolls.

6. Are these good for meal prepping?
Definitely! They’re easy to reheat and make a great grab-and-go meal or snack.

Conclusion: Your Turn to Bake These Cheesy Delights

Ham and cheese sticks are more than just a snack—they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s quick, easy, and versatile. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers or enjoying them on a cozy night in, they never fail to impress.

Now that you’ve got the recipe, it’s time to head to the kitchen and give it a try. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of these golden, cheesy delights ready to savor.

Print