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These ham and cheese sticks have been my go-to snack for busy evenings and casual gatherings. They are simple to assemble, bake up golden and flaky, with melty cheese wrapped in savory ham and crescent roll dough that is buttery and soft on the inside with just the right crisp on the outside.
I first made these sticks when my kids wanted a quick after school treat, and now they ask for them almost every week. They are always a hit whether for game nights or picnic days.
Ingredients
- Crescent roll dough: provides a flaky and buttery base that browns to a lovely golden hue. Look for refrigerated dough to make rolling simple.
- Deli ham: pick your favorite kind like honey ham, black forest, or smoked for personalized flavor. Thicker slices deliver a more satisfying bite.
- Cheese sticks (mozzarella or cheddar): melt evenly and hold their shape well during baking. String cheese works great here.
- Mustard (optional): adds a gentle tang and depth to balance the richness; Dijon or honey mustard are especially lovely.
- Melted butter: creates a glossy, golden crust when brushed on before baking.
- Garlic powder: introduces a subtle savory warmth.
- Dried parsley: brings a fresh herbal note and a bit of color.
- Grated Parmesan: lends a salty crunch to finish. Use the freshly grated variety if possible for best flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil your air fryer basket. Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into eight triangles or rectangles.
- Assemble the Sticks:
- If using, spread a thin layer of mustard down the center of each dough piece. Lay one slice of ham over the dough, folding as needed to fit. Place a cheese stick atop the ham. Roll the dough tightly around the filling, folding in sides to completely enclose the cheese. Press edges firmly to seal, so the cheese will not leak out during baking.
- Brush with Butter Topping:
- Mix melted butter with garlic powder and parsley. Brush this mixture generously over the top of each rolled stick. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the sticks for an irresistible golden and crunchy finish.
- Bake or Air Fry:
- If baking, arrange sticks on the prepared baking sheet and cook for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. If using an air fryer, place two to four sticks inside (depending on basket size) and air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Let the sticks cool for three to five minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
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My favorite part is the golden garlic butter topping with the Parmesan sprinkle—it turns a simple snack into something quite special. One time I brought these sticks to a family potluck and people disappeared them in no time flat, asking for the recipe on the spot.
Storage Tips
Store leftover ham and cheese sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer briefly to crisp the crust again. For longer storage, wrap individually and freeze, then warm straight from frozen in the oven.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try turkey or chicken slices instead of ham for a leaner option. Cheddar or pepper jack cheese bring a sharper, spicier profile if mozzarella feels too mild. You can swap mustard for mayonnaise or skip it completely if preferred.
Serving Suggestions
These sticks pair perfectly with a side of marinara sauce or honey mustard for dipping. A fresh green salad or crunchy veggies balance the richness nicely. They also work well alongside a bowl of tomato soup for cozy lunches.
Cultural Context
Wrapped cheesy snacks like these are popular across many cuisines in different variations. Crescent roll dough provides an easy shortcut but the idea of rolling meat and cheese in dough goes back to savory pastries found worldwide, often served as finger foods at gatherings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different types of cheese for these sticks?
Yes, mozzarella and cheddar cheese sticks melt well for these treats. You can also try other semi-soft cheeses that melt evenly without leaking excessively.
- → What is the best way to prevent cheese leakage when baking?
Ensure the edges of the crescent dough are pressed firmly to fully enclose the cheese. Rolling tightly and sealing minimizes leaks during cooking.
- → Can these sticks be prepared ahead and baked later?
Absolutely! Assemble the sticks, then refrigerate until ready to bake. Brush with garlic butter before cooking for best results.
- → How does air frying compare to baking these sticks?
Air frying yields a slightly quicker cook time with a crisp exterior and melty interior. Baking offers an evenly golden crust and is ideal for larger batches.
- → What variations can be added to enhance flavor?
Adding a light spread of mustard inside or sprinkling dried herbs with the garlic butter topping enhances the savory profile beautifully.