When it comes to throwing together a quick and crowd-pleasing appetizer, ham and cheese sticks are one of the best go-to snacks you can make. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or need a last-minute party treat, this recipe will have you serving up a tasty snack in just 30 minutes.
You’ll love how simple and satisfying these ham and cheese sticks are — packed with gooey melted cheese and savory ham wrapped in buttery dough. Let’s dive into how you can whip these up quickly and impress your guests without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute parties
- Simple ingredients you likely have on hand
- Cheesy, savory, and perfectly crispy every time
- Easy to customize with your favorite cheeses or seasonings
- Great finger food for kids and adults alike
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your ham and cheese sticks:
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 6 oz sliced deli ham, cut into strips
- 6 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Servings: 8 sticks
- Calories: Approximately 180 per serving
How to Make Ham and Cheese Sticks - Easy Party Snack in 30 Min!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and press the perforations to seal into one large rectangle.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Layer the ham strips evenly over the cheese, then carefully roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other, forming a log.
- Slice the log into 8 equal sticks, about 1 inch wide, and place them cut side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush each stick with melted butter, then sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sesame seeds if using.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 3-5 minutes before serving warm.
Tips for the Best Results
- Seal the crescent dough perforations well to prevent cheese from leaking during baking.
- Use sharp cheddar for a flavorful, melty cheese experience.
- Customize with other fillings like sliced pepperoni or different cheeses for variety.
- Brush with butter generously for a golden, crispy crust.
- Serve with mustard or a dipping sauce to elevate the flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover ham and cheese sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust from becoming soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the sticks, slice them, and place them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just add a couple extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What if I don’t have crescent roll dough?
Puff pastry or pizza dough can be good substitutes, but baking times may vary. Crescent dough creates the perfect flaky, buttery texture for these sticks.
Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! Mozzarella, Swiss, or a cheese blend work well. Just choose cheeses that melt nicely for best results.
Are these suitable for kids?
Definitely. Ham and cheese sticks are kid-friendly, easy to hold, and packed with familiar flavors kids enjoy.