As a child, I remember the joy of coming home from school, greeted by the aroma of something delicious baking in the oven. One particularly unforgettable afternoon, my mom had whipped up a batch of Ham and Cheese Sticks, and the moment I sank my teeth into that flaky, warm goodness, I was hooked. The combination of savory ham and gooey melted cheese wrapped in a buttery pastry made it a favorite snack. Today, I want to share that same experience with you, guiding you through the easy steps to create this delightful treat at home.
What is Ham and Cheese Sticks
Ham and Cheese Sticks are a delectable snack or appetizer that features thin slices of ham and cheese tucked into crescent dough, making them flaky on the outside and savory on the inside. Ideal for parties, game days, or a quick meal, these sticks are both satisfying and straightforward to prepare. The layers of flavor from the ham and cheese blend perfectly with the crispy dough, resulting in a finger food that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, these sticks can be modified easily to cater to various tastes or dietary preferences, allowing you to get creative with ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Ham and Cheese Sticks:
There are countless reasons to appreciate Ham and Cheese Sticks, but here are some standout benefits that make them a must-try:
- Quick and simple to prepare: With minimal prep time and easy instructions, you can have this delicious dish ready in less than 30 minutes.
- Family-friendly meal: Children and adults alike enjoy the familiar flavors of ham and cheese, making this a hit at any gathering.
- Great for beginners: If you’re new to cooking, this recipe offers a straightforward approach that builds confidence in the kitchen.
- Versatile snack: Serve them warm as an appetizer or include them in a lunchbox for a tasty treat.
- Flourish your creativity: Easily customize with different meats, cheeses, or spices to suit your tastes.
No matter the occasion, Ham and Cheese Sticks can cater to various preferences while delivering on taste and satisfaction.
Ingredients
– 2 tubes crescent dough sheets
– 1 pound deli-sliced ham
– 8 cheddar cheese sticks
– ¼ cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard
– ½ tablespoon dried minced onion or onion powder
– ½ tablespoon poppy seeds
These simple ingredients combine to create a snack that’s both savory and irresistible. You can easily find all of them at your local grocery store, making this an accessible option for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Step-by-Step Instructions Ham and Cheese Sticks
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Roll out the crescent dough sheets on a clean surface and cut each sheet into four equal pieces, resulting in a total of eight pieces.
3. Distribute the deli-sliced ham evenly among the crescent pieces, placing one cheese stick on top of the ham of each piece.
4. Fold and roll each piece carefully from one end to seal the ham and cheese inside completely.
5. Place the rolled sticks on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space to expand while baking.
6. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion, and poppy seeds. Brush this flavorful mixture on top of each stick.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the sticks are golden brown and puffed up.
8. Let the Ham and Cheese Sticks cool briefly before serving them hot. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Pro Tips and Variations:
To elevate your Ham and Cheese Sticks, consider these tips and variations:
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for varying flavors.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or chopped green onions for a nutritional boost.
- Make It Spicy: Add jalapeño slices or sriracha sauce to the filling for a spicy twist.
- Change Up the Meat: Substitute ham with turkey, chicken, or any deli meat of your choice for exciting variations.
- Dip Options: Serve with honey mustard, ranch, or marinara sauce for added flavor and variety.
These simple adjustments can turn a classic snack into something extraordinary, catering to different tastes and preferences.
How to Serve Ham and Cheese Sticks
Ham and Cheese Sticks can be enjoyed in various ways and are perfect for different occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Appetizer Delight: Serve these warm sticks as a tasty appetizer at parties or family gatherings alongside dipping sauces.
- Game Day Treat: Perfect finger food for game days, they’re easy to grab and enjoy while watching your favorite sport.
- Lunch Pairing: Include them in lunch boxes with fresh fruit or a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Buffet Style: Arrange them on a platter at buffets, providing guests with a convenient snack option.
Flexibility in serving shows just how versatile these sticks can be, appealing to all types of occasions.
How to Store Ham and Cheese Sticks
Storing leftover Ham and Cheese Sticks is straightforward, and doing so will help preserve their flavor and texture.
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the Ham and Cheese Sticks. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will keep for up to two months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the sticks on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid a microwave, as it may make the dough soggy and lose its delightful crunch.
Proper storage and reheating are essential for maintaining the deliciousness of your Ham and Cheese Sticks.
Nutrition Information
Understanding the nutritional value can help you enjoy Ham and Cheese Sticks mindfully. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 150-200 kcal
- Protein: 9-10g
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
Keep in mind that variations in ingredients will affect the nutritional content slightly. Always adjust serving sizes based on your dietary needs.
FAQs Ham and Cheese Sticks
**1. Can I make Ham and Cheese Sticks ahead of time?**
Absolutely! You can prepare them a few hours in advance and refrigerate them. When ready to serve, simply bake them right before your guests arrive.
2. What can I substitute for crescent dough?
If you can’t find crescent dough, puff pastry or homemade dough can work as great alternatives, though baking times may vary slightly.
3. Are Ham and Cheese Sticks suitable for freezing?
Yes! They can be frozen before or after baking. Thaw them in the refrigerator and then reheat for best results.
4. Can I make a vegetarian version?
Certainly! Replace the ham with grilled vegetables, mushrooms, or a spread of your favorite hummus to create a delicious vegetarian option.
Conclusion
Making Ham and Cheese Sticks at home not only brings the comfort of a beloved snack but also offers flexibility in ingredient choices. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering, packing them for lunch, or enjoying them as a cozy snack, these sticks are sure to delight. I encourage you to try making your own batch and experience the joy of filling your home with tasty aromas. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any unique twists you make on this recipe!
Ham and Cheese Sticks
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Roll out the crescent dough sheets on a clean surface and cut each sheet into four equal pieces, resulting in a total of eight pieces.
- Distribute the deli-sliced ham evenly among the crescent pieces, placing one cheese stick on top of the ham of each piece.
- Fold and roll each piece carefully from one end to seal the ham and cheese inside completely.
- Place the rolled sticks on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space to expand while baking.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion, and poppy seeds. Brush this flavorful mixture on top of each stick.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the sticks are golden brown and puffed up.
- Let the Ham and Cheese Sticks cool briefly before serving them hot. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!