Cheesy Ham Sticks Recipe: Easy and Delicious Snack!

Looking for a versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer that will elevate any gathering? Look no further than these irresistible Ham and Cheese Sticks! Wrapped in flaky crescent dough and packed with quality ham and cheddar, each bite is a perfect balance of savory goodness. The secret lies in the buttery dough, melty cheese, and a savory glaze brushed on top, making them a hit at casual family snacks or elegant party spreads. And with the addition of flavorful ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and dried onion, these sticks are a visual and flavorful delight.

Transforming simple ingredients into restaurant-quality appetizers has never been easier! In just 25 minutes, you can have these Ham and Cheese Sticks ready to impress your guests. Whether you choose to customize them with different cheeses, prepare them ahead and freeze for future use, or serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, these sticks are sure to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, get creative with your fillings, and get ready to enjoy these delicious and easy-to-make treats that are perfect for any occasion!

Quick Benefits

• Creates restaurant-quality appetizers at home
• Perfect for make-ahead entertaining
• Customizable to any taste preference
• Freezes beautifully for future use

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ham Sticks Recipe: Easy and Delicious Snack! Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality Appetizers at Home: Impress your guests with these gourmet-looking and delicious ham and cheese sticks that taste like they were ordered from a fancy restaurant.
• Quick Assembly: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delectable appetizers ready in no time, making them ideal for last-minute entertaining or snack cravings.
• Make-Ahead Entertaining: Perfect for planning ahead, these sticks can be prepared in advance and frozen, saving you time and effort when guests arrive.
• Customizable to Your Taste: Experiment with different cheeses and seasonings to suit your preferences, ensuring each batch is tailored to your liking.
• Economical: Save money by making these at home rather than purchasing similar items from a store, without compromising on taste or quality.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a formal brunch, these ham and cheese sticks are a versatile option that will suit any event or mealtime.
• Perfect Technique Tips: Follow the expert tips for assembling and baking the sticks to ensure they turn out beautifully every time, just like a pro.
• Freezing Instructions: Learn how to freeze the sticks for future use, allowing you to have a convenient snack or appetizer on hand whenever needed.
• Dipping Sauces: Pair these flavorful sticks with a variety of dipping sauces to elevate the taste experience and keep your guests coming back for more.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ham Sticks Recipe: Easy and Delicious Snack!

Base Components

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

Seasoned Butter Glaze

• 1/2 tablespoon dried minced onion or onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Pro Tips for Cheesy Ham Sticks Recipe: Easy and Delicious Snack!

To ensure your Ham and Cheese Sticks turn out perfectly every time, remember to keep your crescent dough sheets cold until you’re ready to use them. This will help the dough maintain its flaky texture during baking. Additionally, when assembling the sticks, make sure to layer the ham and cheese evenly with a slight overlap to ensure each bite has a perfect balance of flavors.

For a professional touch, brush the savory glaze generously over the sticks just before baking to create a golden finish and enhance the flavors. Remember to watch the baking process closely to achieve the desired golden color and ensure the bottoms are fully cooked. Once baked, allow the sticks to cool slightly before cutting to maintain their shape. By following these pro tips, you’ll create restaurant-quality Ham and Cheese Sticks that are sure to impress your guests at any gathering.

How to Make Cheesy Ham Sticks Recipe: Easy and Delicious Snack!

Step 1: Step 01

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease baking sheet or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Step 02

Roll out the crescent dough sheets and cut each into 4 pieces, resulting in 8 total pieces.

Step 3: Step 03

Evenly distribute ham among dough pieces. Place a cheese stick on top of the ham on each piece, then fold in the ends and roll to seal.

Step 4: Step 04

Combine melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, onion, and poppy seeds in a small bowl.

Step 5: Step 05

Arrange rolls on baking sheet and generously brush with butter mixture.

Step 6: Step 06

Bake until golden brown, for 12-15 minutes. Serve hot.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Ham and Cheese Sticks, it is important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Place a layer of parchment paper between the sticks to prevent them from sticking together. They should be consumed within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.

If you wish to freeze the Ham and Cheese Sticks for future use, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer until they are firm. Once frozen, transfer the sticks to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven until heated through, ensuring they are crispy and gooey once again. This make-ahead option allows for quick and convenient snacks or appetizers whenever needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make a vegetarian version of these Ham and Cheese Sticks, you can easily substitute the deli-sliced ham with thinly sliced roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. This swap will still provide a savory filling while catering to vegetarian dietary preferences.

For a different flavor profile, consider switching up the cheese sticks with options like pepper jack, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese. These cheeses offer unique tastes and melting properties that can add a refreshing twist to the classic recipe. Additionally, incorporating fresh herbs like chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary into the butter glaze can elevate the overall flavor profile of the sticks.

If you prefer a different type of dough, you can try using puff pastry sheets instead of crescent dough. Puff pastry will give the sticks a flakier and more delicate texture, adding a gourmet touch to the appetizer. Just be mindful of adjusting the baking time accordingly to ensure the pastry is properly cooked through. These simple substitutions allow for creativity and customization, making the Ham and Cheese Sticks a versatile and adaptable dish for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, cut the baked Ham and Cheese Sticks into smaller pieces and skewer them with toothpicks. Arrange them on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and marinara for guests to enjoy. This presentation not only makes for a visually appealing spread but also allows guests to mix and match flavors to their liking.

To elevate the presentation of your Ham and Cheese Sticks, consider serving them in individual mini cast iron skillets. Place a few sticks in each skillet, drizzle with some extra glaze, and sprinkle with additional poppy seeds for a rustic touch. These individual servings not only look charming but also keep the appetizers warm and gooey, perfect for a cozy gathering or brunch setting.

FAQs for Cheesy Ham Sticks Recipe: Easy and Delicious Snack!

Can I use a different type of cheese for these Ham and Cheese Sticks?

Absolutely! The recipe is customizable, so feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences. Choose good melting cheeses for the best results.

Can I freeze these Ham and Cheese Sticks before baking?

Yes, these sticks freeze beautifully for future use. Prepare them as directed up to the baking stage, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How far in advance can I prepare these Ham and Cheese Sticks?

You can prepare these sticks ahead of time and refrigerate them until needed. You can assemble them up to a day in advance, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply brush them with the glaze and bake as directed.

Can I add extra seasonings to the glaze for more flavor?

Absolutely! The glaze for these Ham and Cheese Sticks can be customized with additional seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with adding fresh herbs, garlic powder, or any other seasonings you enjoy for an extra flavor boost.

Conclusion

As you embark on creating your own batch of savory Ham and Cheese Sticks, remember that the beauty of this recipe lies not just in its simplicity, but in its ability to cater to your personal taste preferences. Experiment with different cheeses, seasonings, and dipping sauces to truly make this appetizer your own. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack to satisfy your cravings or an elegant addition to your party spread, these Ham and Cheese Sticks are sure to impress.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the aroma of freshly baked Ham and Cheese Sticks fill your kitchen. With just a little effort and a whole lot of love, you’ll have a batch of delicious, homemade treats that are bound to disappear in no time. Enjoy the process, enjoy the results, and most importantly, enjoy every bite of these irresistible Ham and Cheese Sticks!