Ham and Cheese Sticks are a simple and tasty snack that everyone loves. These crispy, golden sticks are packed with salty ham and gooey melted cheese inside a crunchy breadstick exterior. They’re perfect for when you want something quick and satisfying.
I love making these as a little treat for family gatherings or just an easy after-school snack. One of my favorite things about them is how easy they are to customize—you can add your favorite seasonings or swap out different types of ham or cheese. They always disappear fast whenever I serve them!
These sticks go great with a side of mustard or a dipping sauce, but honestly, they’re delicious on their own. I usually make a batch and keep them warm in the oven while chatting or watching a game. They’re the kind of snack that brings people together around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ham: Deli ham adds a nice salty flavor. If you want a leaner option, try turkey or chicken slices. For a vegetarian twist, replace ham with grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant.
Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and gives that gooey texture. If you want something sharper, try cheddar or a mix of mozzarella and Swiss. For dairy-free, use a plant-based melting cheese.
Puff Pastry or Crescent Dough: Puff pastry gives a flaky texture, while crescent dough is softer and easier to work with. Both work well. If you don’t have these, try phyllo dough layers brushed with butter.
Parmesan Cheese & Garlic Powder: Parmesan adds a crunchy, savory topping but you can swap it with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Garlic powder enhances taste but you can add smoked paprika or herbs instead.
How Do You Roll and Bake Ham and Cheese Sticks Without Cheese Leaking?
Keeping the melted cheese inside is key to a mess-free bite. Here’s how I do it:
- Roll dough tightly around the ham and cheese, sealing any edges gently with your fingers or a little water.
- Place sticks seam-side down on the baking sheet to prevent them from unrolling during baking.
- Brush with egg wash to help the dough seal and brown beautifully.
- Bake at the right temperature (375°F/190°C) so the dough cooks evenly and cheese melts slowly without bursting out.
- Let them cool 2-3 minutes after baking to let the cheese settle and avoid burns.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I use it because it’s perfect for holding the sticks and easy to clean.
- Parchment paper – keeps the sticks from sticking and helps with cleanup.
- Rolling pin – makes it easier to roll out the puff pastry or crescent dough evenly.
- Brush – a pastry brush for egg wash to give the sticks a nice golden color.
- Knife or pizza cutter – helps cut the dough into strips and seal edges.
- Small bowl – for beating the egg for the wash.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ham for turkey, chicken, or grilled veggies for different flavors.
- Add chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley inside or on top before baking for extra freshness.
- Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or Gouda for a different cheesy twist.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a bit of spice and smoky flavor.
How to Make Ham and Cheese Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 slices of deli ham
- 8 slices of mozzarella cheese (or any good melting cheese)
- 1 sheet of puff pastry or refrigerated crescent roll dough
For the Topping and Finish:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to bake. After baking, allow 2-3 minutes to cool before serving. In total, you’ll spend roughly 30-40 minutes making these tasty ham and cheese sticks from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your sticks from sticking and make cleanup easy.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry or crescent roll dough to smooth seams and create a nice rectangle. This will make rolling the ham and cheese easier.
3. Assemble the Sticks:
Place one slice of ham on the dough, then top it with a slice of mozzarella cheese. It’s okay if the cheese goes a little beyond the ham—it helps it melt evenly and be delicious. Next, roll up the dough tightly around the ham and cheese into a stick shape. Repeat this for all slices.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Place the rolled sticks seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet to prevent them from unrolling. Lightly brush each stick with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden crust when baked. Then, evenly sprinkle garlic powder and grated Parmesan cheese over the sticks for a tasty, savory topping.
5. Bake and Serve:
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and puffed, and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly. Once done, remove the sticks from the oven and let them cool slightly for 2-3 minutes to avoid burning your mouth with hot cheese. Finally, garnish with fresh thyme or Italian herbs if you like, and enjoy your warm, delicious ham and cheese sticks!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry or Dough for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before using. This helps the dough roll out smoothly and bake evenly.
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
You can use any good melting cheese like cheddar, Swiss, provolone, or Gouda. Just pick one that melts well to get that delicious gooey texture inside.
How Should I Store Leftover Ham and Cheese Sticks?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to keep them crispy.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time and Bake Later?
Absolutely! Assemble the sticks and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking straight from the fridge.