Ham and Cheese Sticks

Indulge your taste buds with the delectable combination of savory ham and gooey melted cheese, encased in flaky crescent rolls. These Ham and Cheese Sticks are not just a treat for your palate but also a breeze to whip up, making them perfect for a quick lunch, a satisfying snack, or even a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this mouthwatering delight!

Ingredients:

• 2 tubes crescent dough sheets
• 1 lb. deli-sliced ham
• 8 cheddar cheese sticks
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ Tbsp Dijon mustard
• ½ Tbsp dried minced onion or onion powder
• ½ Tbsp poppy seeds

Directions:

this recipe

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   Roll out your crescent dough sheets and cut each one into 4 pieces, yielding 8 pieces in total.
3. Assemble:
   Distribute the deli-sliced ham evenly among the 8 pieces of dough. Place a cheddar cheese stick on top of the ham on each piece. Fold in the ends of each piece, then roll to seal, ensuring the ham and cheese are enclosed within the dough.
4. Arrange:
   Place the prepared ham and cheese sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each stick for even baking.
5. Make the Glaze:
   In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion or onion powder, and poppy seeds, stirring until well blended.
6. Glaze:
   Brush the butter mixture generously over each stick, ensuring they are evenly coated for a golden finish.
7. Bake:
   Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the Ham and Cheese Sticks turn a delightful golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
   Once baked to perfection, remove the Ham and Cheese Sticks from the oven and serve them hot and fresh. These delectable treats are best enjoyed immediately, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite!

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 8

Conclusion:
With minimal prep and cook time, these Ham and Cheese Sticks are a go-to option for busy days or impromptu gatherings. Whether you’re catering to picky eaters or hosting a party, these savory delights are sure to please everyone’s palate. So, next time you crave a quick and satisfying snack or need a crowd-pleasing appetizer, look no further than these irresistible Ham and Cheese Sticks!

Serving Tips:

1. Serve the Ham and Cheese Sticks hot and fresh from the oven for the best flavor and texture.
2. Arrange them on a platter alongside your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, marinara, or ranch for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness to your presentation.
4. Pair these savory sticks with a crisp side salad or a bowl of soup for a well-rounded meal.
5. These sticks also make a delightful addition to brunch spreads or party platters, so don’t hesitate to include them in your entertaining menu.

Storage Tips:

1. If you have any leftovers, allow the Ham and Cheese Sticks to cool completely before storing them.
2. Place the cooled sticks in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with aluminum foil to maintain their freshness.
3. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring they are kept away from any strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor transfer.
4. To reheat, simply place the sticks on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Avoid freezing the Ham and Cheese Sticks as the texture may become soggy upon thawing, compromising their deliciousness.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Ham and Cheese Sticks remain irresistibly delicious, whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or reheating them for a quick and satisfying snack later on.

1. Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
   Absolutely! While cheddar cheese sticks add a classic flavor, feel free to get creative with your cheese choices. Mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese can all be delicious alternatives to cheddar, allowing you to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
2. Can I make these Ham and Cheese Sticks ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the Ham and Cheese Sticks ahead of time up to a certain point. After assembling the sticks and before baking, you can cover and refrigerate them for a few hours. When ready to bake, simply brush them with the glaze and bake according to the recipe instructions. This allows for some flexibility in meal planning and entertaining.
3. Can I freeze the Ham and Cheese Sticks for later use?
   While it’s not recommended to freeze the assembled Ham and Cheese Sticks, you can freeze the unbaked dough with the ham and cheese inside. Simply prepare the sticks as directed, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for storage. When ready to enjoy, bake the frozen sticks directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time as needed.
4. How can I make this recipe more kid-friendly?
   To make these Ham and Cheese Sticks even more appealing to kids, consider getting them involved in the cooking process. Let them help assemble the sticks by placing the ham and cheese on the dough and rolling them up. You can also cut the sticks into smaller portions to create bite-sized snacks that are perfect for little hands. Additionally, serving them with their favorite dipping sauces or condiments can make mealtime more fun and interactive for kids.