Ham and Cheese Sticks

Cheesy and warm with a crisp golden crust, these ham and cheese sticks have saved many rushed weeknight dinners at my house. They come together so quickly using just a handful of easy ingredients, and every bite tastes like pure comfort. Perfect for after school snacks, game day, or even as a fun lunch, these are one of those recipes you will make again and again.

I first threw these together for a late movie night with my family, and they disappeared faster than the popcorn. Now I get special requests for them at every gathering.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Chicken ham slices: look for deli-fresh or low sodium for best flavor
• Mozzarella cheese sticks: string cheese melts beautifully and holds its shape
• Refrigerated crescent roll dough: choose a fresh tube that feels cool and puffy when squeezed
• Butter: real unsalted is best for flavor
• Garlic powder: adds savory aroma, check for a fresh vibrant scent
• Italian seasoning: brings herby depth, dried blend should be fragrant and green, not dull

How to Make It

Preheat the oven:

Set your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit and prep a baking sheet by lining it with parchment or giving it a light coating of oil. You want an evenly hot oven for crispy results.

Shape the dough:

Unroll the crescent dough on a lightly floured surface and gently separate it into eight triangles. Take your time to keep their shape intact since this makes assembly easier.

Layer the fillings:

Place one slice of chicken ham neatly onto each triangle, making sure it covers most of the dough. This keeps the cheese from leaking. And for the best gooey melt, lay a mozzarella stick at the wide end on top of the ham.

Roll with care:

Starting at the wide end, carefully roll up each triangle over the filling, hugging the cheese and ham snugly all the way to the tip. Pinch the sides together so nothing escapes while baking.

Arrange on the sheet:

Line up each roll on your prepared baking sheet with spacing between so the dough bakes up golden all around.

Mix the topping:

In a small dish, stir together melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for an herby buttery finish.

Brush the rolls:

Generously brush the tops of the rolled dough with your butter mixture. This helps create that extra savory crust.

Bake to golden perfection:

Slide the tray in the oven and bake for twelve to fifteen minutes. Watch for the dough to turn deep golden brown and feel firm to the touch. This means the cheese is melted and everything is cooked through.

Cool and serve:

Let the rolls rest on the sheet for a couple minutes before moving them. Serve warm straight from the oven with a little marinara on the side if you like.

My favorite part is the first bite when the mozzarella stretches between the hot layers. My son always tries to see who gets the longest cheese pull and it makes us laugh every time. Sharing these with friends feels like serving a warm hug.

Flavor Boosters

Try swapping turkey ham for the chicken version if you prefer. Use cheddar sticks or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Pillsbury gluten free dough bakes up nicely if you need a wheat free option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a main dish with salad or soup. Offer with ranch or honey mustard instead of marinara. They are also fantastic as part of a brunch spread with fruit and yogurt.

Creative Twists

Inspired by classic deli flavors, this recipe reflects the simple American love of ham and cheese rolled up in something golden. During the holidays, add a sprinkle of grated parmesan on top for a festive twist, or fold in a few spinach leaves for a hint of green.

These ham and cheese sticks are sure to become a staple in your rotation. Serve them fresh and warm for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella?

Yes, provolone or cheddar also melt well and add a different flavor profile.

→ Is it possible to substitute turkey or pork ham?

Absolutely, any deli ham works, so choose your preferred variety for taste or dietary needs.

→ How can I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Be sure to seal the dough edges well and start rolling from the wide end for a tighter seal.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate until ready to bake. Brush with melted butter just before baking.

→ What sauces pair well with these sticks?

Marinara, honey mustard, or ranch dip all complement the savory flavors beautifully.

→ Are these freezer friendly?

Yes, bake and cool, then freeze. Reheat in the oven until warmed through for best texture.