Ham and Cheese Sticks

 

If you're looking for a savory, handheld snack that's both easy to make and utterly delicious, these Ham and Cheese Sticks are the perfect solution! Combining flaky crescent dough with salty ham and gooey cheddar cheese, then brushed with a flavorful butter glaze, these sticks are ideal for parties, game days, or even as a quick lunchbox treat. Plus, they come together in under 30 minutes—making them a go-to recipe for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Let’s dive into how you can create these delightful bites step by step!

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Why You'll Love These Ham and Cheese Sticks

1. Flaky and Cheesy : Crescent dough creates a buttery exterior while the cheddar and ham deliver rich, savory goodness.
2. Quick and Easy : With simple ingredients and minimal prep work, these sticks are ready in no time.
3. Customizable : Swap out cheeses or add herbs for endless variations.
4. Perfect for Sharing : Bite-sized and portable, they’re great for snacking or entertaining.

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Ingredients You'll Need

• 2 tubes crescent dough sheets
• 1 lb deli-sliced ham (thinly sliced)
• 8 cheddar cheese sticks (cut in half lengthwise)
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ Tbsp Dijon mustard

Optional Toppings:

• Sesame seeds
• Poppy seeds
• Fresh parsley, chopped

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Dough

Unroll both tubes of crescent dough onto a clean surface. Press the perforated edges together gently to form two large rectangles. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to divide each rectangle into 8 even strips (for a total of 16 strips).

Pro Tip: If the dough feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 5–10 minutes to make handling easier.

Step 3: Assemble the Sticks

Lay one slice of ham across the center of each crescent strip. Place half a cheddar cheese stick on top of the ham, ensuring it fits within the boundaries of the dough.

Tightly roll up the dough around the ham and cheese, sealing the ends securely to encase the filling. Place the assembled sticks seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Make the Butter Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter , Worcestershire sauce , and Dijon mustard until well combined. This glaze adds depth of flavor and helps achieve a golden-brown crust.

Brush the glaze generously over each rolled stick, making sure to coat all sides evenly.

Optional: Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or grated Parmesan cheese over the glazed sticks for extra crunch and flavor.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes , or until the sticks are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly. Rotate the tray halfway through baking for even browning.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove the ham and cheese sticks from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with marinara sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing for dipping.

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Customization Ideas

While the classic version of these sticks is irresistible, here are some ideas to switch things up:

1. Spicy Kick : Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for heat.
2. Herby Flavor : Mix chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the butter glaze for aromatic depth.
3. Different Cheeses : Substitute Swiss, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for the cheddar if desired.
4. Prosciutto Twist : Replace the deli ham with thinly sliced prosciutto for a gourmet touch.

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Tips for Success

To ensure your Ham and Cheese Sticks turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Seal the Edges : Pinch the ends of the dough tightly to prevent the ham and cheese from escaping during baking.
• Chill if Needed : If the dough becomes too sticky, refrigerate it briefly to firm up.
• Even Distribution : Ensure each stick has an equal amount of ham and cheese for consistent flavor.
• Don’t Overfill : Leave enough room in the dough to wrap it completely around the filling without tearing.

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Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 200
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 0g

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Conclusion

These Ham and Cheese Sticks bring together the comforting flavors of ham, melty cheese, and buttery crescent dough in one convenient package. Their ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing taste make them a must-have for any occasion.

So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s bake something truly delicious. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger meal, these sticks are sure to become a family favorite!

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore our other easy and flavorful finger food ideas. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen adventures always end in success! 🍴✨