Cheesy Ham and Cheese Sticks

Ham and Cheese Sticks are a satisfying snack combining rich, savory ham and melted cheese wrapped in crispy dough. They make an ideal choice for game nights, after-school treats, or party appetizers. Simple to prepare, these sticks deliver a warm, cheesy delight that’s hard to resist.

I first made these sticks during a weekend get-together and they disappeared before I knew it. Now they are a staple for casual gatherings and snack time in my home.

Ingredients

• Crescent roll dough or puff pastry: choose crescent rolls for a soft, pillowy texture or puff pastry for a flaky, buttery crust
• Deli-sliced ham or smoked ham: deli ham delivers mild flavor while smoked ham adds a deeper, smoky richness
• Cheese sticks: cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite melting cheese, mozzarella melts beautifully while cheddar adds sharpness
• Melted butter: adds richness and helps the glaze stick
• Worcestershire sauce: brings tang and umami to the glaze
• Dijon mustard: offers a subtle sharpness that balances the richness
• Onion powder: adds mild sweetness and depth without overpowering
• Poppy seeds: provide a slight crunch and visual appeal
• Coarse salt: sprinkled on top for texture and flavor enhancement, use kosher or sea salt for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Preparation:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking

Prepare the Dough and Filling:

Roll out your dough on a clean surface if needed. Slice ham into strips sized to fit the dough sections. Cut cheese sticks to the same length as the dough pieces so the filling is even

Assemble the Sticks:

Place a strip of ham on each piece of dough, then top with a cheese stick. Roll up the dough carefully around the filling, pressing the edges firmly to seal so the cheese won’t leak out while baking

Mix the Glaze:

In a small bowl, combine melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, onion powder, and poppy seeds. This glaze will give your sticks a glossy golden finish with an extra flavor boost

Brush and Bake:

Brush the glaze evenly over each rolled stick. Sprinkle coarse salt on top to enhance texture and flavor. Arrange the sticks on the baking sheet, spacing them out enough to bake evenly. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the dough turns golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey inside

Cool and Serve:

Allow the sticks to cool slightly so they hold their shape and aren’t too hot to eat. Serve with your favorite dips such as marinara, honey mustard, or ranch dressing

Save Pin

My favorite part of this recipe is the glaze. It adds so much character and makes the surface crispy and shiny. I remember making a big batch for a family reunion and everyone raved about the perfectly golden, flavorful crust.

Storage Tips

Store leftover ham and cheese sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350 degrees until heated through to maintain the crispy exterior. For longer storage, wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap ham for sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a savory filling. You can also try different cheeses such as gouda, provolone, or Swiss for unique flavor profiles. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free dough or tortilla wraps though baking times and textures will vary.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sticks warm with a variety of dipping sauces to suit your mood and guests. Classic marinara enhances the cheesy flavor. Honey mustard adds sweetness and tang, while ranch dressing brings a cool, creamy contrast. For a bit of heat, try sriracha mayo or a smoky barbecue sauce. They make excellent finger foods for parties or satisfying snacks with a side salad.

The Perfect Dough Base

Choosing between crescent roll dough and puff pastry depends on your preference. I like crescent dough when I want something soft and pillowy for a quick snack. Puff pastry takes a little more care but yields a wonderfully flaky and buttery crust that elevates the snack to something special. Both work beautifully to hold the ham and cheese filling while providing a crispy exterior.

Pro Tips

• Make sure to press the dough edges firmly to avoid cheese leaking during baking
• Do not skip brushing the glaze it adds flavor and helps create an irresistible golden finish
• Keep an eye on the sticks in the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning or drying out

Commonly Asked Questions

→ What types of dough work best for these sticks?

Crescent roll dough offers a soft, pillowy texture, while puff pastry provides a flaky, buttery crispness. Both create a perfect exterior to hold the filling.

→ Can I use different cheeses in the sticks?

Yes, mozzarella gives a mild stretchiness, cheddar adds sharpness, and other melting cheeses like gouda or provolone can be used for varied flavor.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from leaking during baking?

Make sure to seal the dough edges tightly around the ham and cheese to keep the filling secure and melt inside the dough.

→ What’s the purpose of the glaze on top?

The glaze, made from butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and spices, adds flavor depth and creates a golden, crispy finish with a slight crunch from poppy seeds.

→ Can these sticks be frozen for later?

Yes, once cooled, wrap tightly and freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven until warmed and cheese is melty.

→ What are good dipping sauce options?

Classic choices include marinara, honey mustard, and ranch, but barbecue, garlic dip, or spicy mayo also complement well.

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