Baked Ham Cheese Sticks

If you’re looking for a quick and easy appetizer recipe that everyone will love, these Baked Ham & Cheese Sticks are the answer. Made with just a handful of ingredients, they’re crispy, cheesy, and full of savory flavor. Perfect as a kid-friendly snack, a party appetizer, or a weeknight finger food dinner, these baked ham and cheese sticks are guaranteed to disappear fast.

They’re budget-friendly, easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, and require minimal cleanup. Whether you’re planning a game day spread, looking for a school lunchbox idea, or craving a warm and cheesy snack, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredient Overview

  • 1 package crescent roll dough (8 count) – Buttery, flaky base.

  • 8 slices of ham – Use deli ham or leftover baked ham.

  • 8 cheese sticks (mozzarella or cheddar) – Melty center of each roll.

  • 2 tbsp melted butter – Brushed for golden finish.

  • 1 tsp garlic powder – Adds flavor to the crust.

  • 1 tsp dried parsley (optional) – For garnish.

  • 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese (optional) – For extra cheesy topping.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven
Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Assemble rolls
Unroll crescent dough and separate into 8 triangles. Place 1 slice of ham and 1 cheese stick on each triangle. Roll tightly, tucking in edges to seal.

Step 3: Season & brush
Place rolls seam-side down on baking sheet. Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder, parsley, and Parmesan (if using).

Step 4: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown and cheese is melted.

Step 5: Serve
Serve warm with marinara, ranch, or honey mustard for dipping.

Nutrition (Per Serving – 1 roll)

  • Calories: 210

  • Protein: 11g

  • Carbs: 14g

  • Fat: 12g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugar: 2g

20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I use different cheese? – Yes, cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack work great.

  2. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls? – Yes, but bake time may be slightly longer.

  3. Can I use leftover holiday ham? – Absolutely, it works perfectly.

  4. Do these reheat well? – Yes, reheat in oven for best crispiness.

  5. Can I freeze them? – Yes, freeze before baking, then bake from frozen.

  6. Can I air fry them? – Yes, 375°F for 8–10 minutes.

  7. What dipping sauces pair well? – Marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or cheese sauce.

  8. Can I make them ahead? – Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

  9. Can I make them vegetarian? – Yes, just skip the ham and double the cheese.

  10. Can I use biscuit dough? – Yes, but flatten it before rolling.

  11. Do kids like this recipe? – Yes, it’s very kid-friendly.

  12. Can I add spices inside? – Yes, sprinkle taco seasoning or ranch mix.

  13. Can I double the recipe? – Yes, perfect for parties.

  14. How do I prevent cheese from leaking? – Seal dough edges tightly.

  15. Can I add veggies? – Yes, thin bell pepper strips or spinach work well.

  16. Do they taste good cold? – Yes, but best warm.

  17. How long do leftovers last? – 3–4 days in fridge.

  18. Can I use turkey instead of ham? – Yes, turkey slices work great.

  19. Do they get soggy? – No, if reheated in oven instead of microwave.

  20. Are they good for parties? – Yes, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.

20 Helpful Tips

  1. Use room-temperature dough for easier rolling.

  2. Slice cheese sticks in half if using smaller rolls.

  3. Add Dijon mustard inside for flavor.

  4. Use smoked ham for depth.

  5. Bake on parchment to prevent sticking.

  6. Brush with butter for golden finish.

  7. Add sesame seeds on top for crunch.

  8. Sprinkle cayenne for a spicy kick.

  9. Use shredded cheese if you don’t have sticks.

  10. Don’t overstuff or cheese will leak out.

  11. Bake in batches for crispier results.

  12. Serve with multiple dips for variety.

  13. Make mini versions with cocktail weenies.

  14. Store leftovers in airtight container.

  15. Freeze before baking for meal prep.

  16. Use mozzarella for classic flavor.

  17. Add pineapple for a Hawaiian twist.

  18. Mix garlic into butter for extra flavor.

  19. Serve with soup for a cozy meal.

  20. Always serve warm for melty cheese pull.

10 Storage Tips

  1. Store in airtight container in fridge.

  2. Keeps 3–4 days refrigerated.

  3. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

  4. Avoid microwave reheating for crispiness.

  5. Freeze unbaked rolls for up to 3 months.

  6. Label freezer bags with date.

  7. Thaw overnight before baking.

  8. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes cook time.

  9. Freeze leftovers wrapped in foil.

  10. Reheat in toaster oven for quick snack.

20 Recipe Secrets

  1. Add cream cheese inside for extra creaminess.

  2. Use everything bagel seasoning on top.

  3. Wrap cheese inside ham before rolling.

  4. Mix ranch seasoning into butter for brushing.

  5. Add bacon crumbles for more flavor.

  6. Use smoked gouda for richness.

  7. Add jalapeños inside for spice.

  8. Brush with honey butter for sweetness.

  9. Sprinkle Italian seasoning before baking.

  10. Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor.

  11. Top with extra Parmesan before serving.

  12. Add spinach for a healthy twist.

  13. Roll tightly to avoid cheese leaking.

  14. Bake in cast iron for crispy edges.

  15. Dip in queso for indulgence.

  16. Add caramelized onions for depth.

  17. Use puff pastry for flakier texture.

  18. Serve with marinara for pizza vibes.

  19. Add ham and Swiss for a deli-style version.

  20. Always bake until golden brown for best texture.

 

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