Ham and Cheese Sticks

These Ham and Cheese Sticks are a delicious blend of savory deli ham and gooey cheddar cheese, all wrapped in flaky crescent dough. They are perfect for parties, game nights, or even as a quick snack during the week. These sticks are not only easy to make but also offer a warm and satisfying treat that everyone will love. Their buttery glaze adds a delightful finish, making them irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these snacks ready in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These ham and cheese sticks are sure to be a hit at any gathering or family meal.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for parties, movie nights, or even a light lunch. Enjoy them anytime!
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love cheesy snacks! These sticks make for an excellent choice for their lunchboxes.
• Easy Clean-Up: Using parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze after enjoying these tasty treats.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or non-stick spray
• Mixing bowl
• Brush for glazing

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your ham and cheese sticks, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Parchment paper: Keeps the sticks from sticking to the baking sheet, making for easy removal post-baking.

Ingredients

These ham and cheese sticks combine deli ham and cheddar wrapped in flaky dough, topped with a buttery glaze for the perfect warm snack.

For the Dough

• 2 tubes crescent dough sheets

For the Filling

• 1 pound deli-sliced ham
• 8 cheddar cheese sticks

For the Glaze

• ¼ cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ tablespoon dried minced onion or onion powder
• ½ tablespoon poppy seeds

How to Make Ham and Cheese Sticks

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Roll out your crescent dough sheets on a flat surface. Cut each sheet into 4 pieces, resulting in 8 pieces total.

Step 3: Assemble the Sticks

Distribute the ham evenly among the 8 pieces of dough. Place one cheddar cheese stick on top of each piece of ham. Fold in both ends of each piece and then roll to seal them securely.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the prepared ham and cheese sticks on your greased or lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together your melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried onion (or onion powder), and poppy seeds until well combined.

Step 6: Brush with Glaze

Using a brush, generously coat each stick with the butter mixture to add flavor and create a golden finish.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Enjoy your Ham and Cheese Sticks hot and fresh from the oven! Perfect as an appetizer or snack.

How to Serve Ham and Cheese Sticks

Serving ham and cheese sticks can elevate any gathering, making them a hit at parties or casual family dinners. Here are some creative ways to present these delightful snacks.

With Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy dip that complements the savory flavors of the ham.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch provides a cool contrast to the warmth of the sticks.
• Spicy Ketchup: For those who enjoy a kick, spicy ketchup adds an exciting twist.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Cheese Variety: Pair your sticks with different types of cheeses for an appealing platter.
• Fresh Fruits: Include grapes or apple slices for a refreshing balance.
• Nuts and Olives: Add some crunch with nuts and a briny bite with olives to enhance flavors.

As Part of a Meal

• With Salad: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad to add protein and texture.
• In a Wrap: Use them as filling in wraps for a hearty lunch option.

SAVE THIS!

How to Perfect Ham and Cheese Sticks

To ensure your ham and cheese sticks come out perfectly every time, follow these tips for optimal results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh deli ham and quality cheddar will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Seal Properly: Make sure the dough is sealed tightly around the filling to prevent leakage during baking.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on them while baking; oven temperatures can vary, leading to different results.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like spinach or different cheeses for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Ham and Cheese Sticks

Pairing side dishes with your ham and cheese sticks can create a more satisfying meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic choice that adds greens and crunch, perfect for balancing the richness of the sticks.
2. Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies with dip provide a colorful contrast and healthy crunch.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs complement the flavors nicely.
4. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness and freshness against savory snacks.
5. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw offers tanginess that cuts through the richness of ham and cheese.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: These add an extra layer of flavor while keeping things simple and delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ham and Cheese Sticks, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Dough Prep: Always roll out your crescent dough properly. If you don’t, it may not cook evenly or hold everything together.
• Overfilling with Ingredients: Avoid adding too much ham or cheese. This can cause the filling to burst out during baking.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure it reaches 350°F (175°C) before baking.
• Ignoring the Butter Glaze: Skipping the glaze may result in a dry snack. Don’t forget to brush on that buttery mixture for flavor and shine.
• Underbaking or Overbaking: Keep an eye on your sticks while baking. They should be golden brown, so don’t let them bake too long or come out undercooked.

SAVE THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Ham and Cheese Sticks in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Ham and Cheese Sticks

• Place cooled sticks in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Ham and Cheese Sticks

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for about 30-60 seconds, but expect a softer texture.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Ham and Cheese Sticks, here are some frequently asked questions.

What are Ham and Cheese Sticks?

Ham and Cheese Sticks are flaky snacks made by wrapping deli ham and cheddar cheese sticks in crescent dough, then baking them until golden brown.

How do I customize my Ham and Cheese Sticks?

You can add different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack, or even include vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute turkey, chicken, or even salami if you prefer something different from ham.

Are Ham and Cheese Sticks kid-friendly?

Absolutely! These snacks are perfect for kids due to their cheesy goodness and fun shape.

How can I make these ahead of time?

You can assemble them earlier in the day, store them in the fridge, and bake just before serving for fresh snacks!

Final Thoughts

These Ham and Cheese Sticks are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party or as a cozy snack at home, they’re sure to please everyone. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients!