ham and cheese sticks

The ham and cheese sticks recipe combines savory flavors wrapped in a delightful crescent roll, making it an excellent choice for parties, game days, or quick family snacks. These easy-to-make treats are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. With melty cheese and hearty ham encased in flaky dough, they promise to be a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why You’ll Love This ham and cheese sticks

These ham and cheese sticks are a hit for many reasons!

• Quick Preparation: They take just 10 minutes to prep, making them perfect for unexpected guests.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of ham and cheddar delivers a satisfying taste that everyone loves.
• Versatile Snack: Serve them as appetizers, party snacks, or even a fun lunch option.
• Easy to Customize: You can easily swap out the fillings based on your preferences or dietary needs.
• Kid-Friendly: These sticks are sure to please picky eaters with their cheesy goodness.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delicious ham and cheese sticks, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Brush for glazing

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of your sticks.
• Rolling pin: This helps achieve uniform dough thickness, which is crucial for consistent baking.

Ingredients

For the Dough & Fillings

• 2 tubes crescent dough sheets
• 1 lb deli-sliced ham
• 8 cheddar cheese sticks

For the Glaze

• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tbsp dried minced onion or onion powder
• 1/2 tbsp poppy seeds

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make ham and cheese sticks

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Dough

Cut each crescent dough sheet into 4 equal pieces, giving you a total of 8 pieces.

Step 3: Assemble the Filling

Layer slices of ham on each piece of dough. Place a cheddar cheese stick on top of the ham. Fold in the ends of the dough and roll it up tightly to enclose the filling completely.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place each rolled stick onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them for expansion during baking.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter with Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion (or onion powder), and poppy seeds. Mix well until blended.

Step 6: Brush with Glaze

Generously brush the glaze over each ham and cheese stick before placing them in the oven.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12–15 minutes or until they are golden brown and bubbly. Serve warm for best enjoyment!

How to Serve ham and cheese sticks

Ham and cheese sticks are deliciously versatile and can be served in various ways to please your guests or family. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual snack, these serving suggestions will enhance the experience.

For Appetizers

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dips like ranch, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard for added flavor.
• Vegetable Platter: Pair with fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a crunchy contrast.

As a Main Dish

• With Salad: Accompany your ham and cheese sticks with a light green salad for a balanced meal.
• In a Sandwich: Use the sticks as filling in a sandwich along with fresh lettuce and tomatoes.

On Game Day

• Finger Food Platter: Include ham and cheese sticks on a platter with wings, sliders, and nachos for game day snacks.
• Mini Sliders: Create mini sliders by adding the sticks to small buns with condiments.

How to Perfect ham and cheese sticks

Perfecting ham and cheese sticks is all about technique. Follow these tips to ensure your sticks come out delicious every time.

• Bold dough choice: Use refrigerated crescent dough sheets for easy rolling and flaky texture.
• Bold filling variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for unique flavors.
• Bold glazing importance: Don’t skip the glaze; it adds flavor and helps achieve that golden color.
• Bold cooling time: Allow your ham and cheese sticks to cool slightly before serving to prevent burns.
• Bold portion control: Cut each stick into smaller pieces for easy snacking at parties.

Best Side Dishes for ham and cheese sticks

Ham and cheese sticks pair well with various side dishes that complement their savory flavor. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Chips and Salsa: A classic combination that adds crunch and zest to your meal.
2. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits provide sweetness that balances the salty flavor of the sticks.
3. Coleslaw: This creamy side adds texture and tanginess, making it a perfect match.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges enhance the savory profile of the dish while providing heartiness.
5. Pickles: The acidity from pickles cuts through the richness of the cheese and ham.
6. Stuffed Jalapeños: For those who enjoy spicy flavors, these make an exciting side that pairs beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your ham and cheese sticks turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Ignoring the dough thickness: If the dough is rolled too thin, it can tear easily. Make sure to handle it gently and keep it at the recommended thickness.

• Overfilling the sticks: Adding too much ham or cheese can cause them to burst open while baking. Stick to one slice of ham and one cheese stick per piece of dough.

• Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds flavor and helps achieve a golden color. Don’t skip it; brush generously over each stick before baking.

• Not preheating the oven: Baking your sticks in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat to 350°F (175°C) before placing them inside.

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 Instructions

• Wrap each stick individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sticks on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on high for about 30-45 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick pan over low heat for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are ham and cheese sticks?

Ham and cheese sticks are savory snacks made with crescent dough filled with deli-sliced ham and cheddar cheese.

Can I customize my ham and cheese sticks?

Yes! You can add herbs, spices, or different types of cheese for varied flavors.

How do I make gluten-free ham and cheese sticks?

Substitute crescent dough with gluten-free dough available at most grocery stores, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I use other meats instead of ham?

Absolutely! Turkey, chicken, or even pepperoni can be used as delicious alternatives in your ham and cheese sticks.

Final Thoughts

These ham and cheese sticks are a delightful snack that’s easy to prepare. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings based on your preference, making them suitable for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy their cheesy goodness!