Easy ham cheese sticks

The perfect blend of convenience and flavor comes together in these irresistible ham and cheese sticks. Pillowy soft crescent dough wrapped around savory deli ham and gooey melted cheese creates an easy yet satisfying snack or meal that both kids and adults will devour. The finishing touch—a savory butter glaze with subtle notes of mustard, onion, and poppy seeds—elevates these simple roll-ups from ordinary to exceptional. They're perfect for busy weekdays, after-school snacks, or casual gatherings when you need something delicious without complicated preparation.

I first made these on a busy afternoon when my hungry nephews showed up unexpectedly. With just a few ingredients from the refrigerator, these ham and cheese sticks came together in minutes and disappeared even faster! Now they specifically request "those cheesy ham things" whenever they visit, and I always keep the ingredients on hand for impromptu gatherings.

Ingredients That Make All The Difference

• Crescent dough sheets: The pillowy, flaky texture creates the perfect vehicle for the fillings. Using sheets rather than pre-cut triangles makes assembly much easier.
• Deli ham: Thin slices provide the best flavor distribution and texture. Higher quality ham makes a noticeable difference in the final result.
• Cheese sticks: Using actual cheese sticks rather than shredded cheese ensures proper melting and that irresistible cheese pull when eaten warm.
• Dijon mustard: Adds depth to the butter glaze with its tangy complexity, complementing the savory ham perfectly.
• Worcestershire sauce: Just a touch provides umami richness to the glaze that takes these from simple to special.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven:

to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's at the proper temperature when your ham and cheese sticks are ready to bake. Proper preheating is essential for the crescent dough to rise properly and achieve that golden brown exterior. While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet by lightly greasing it or lining with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Open the package of crescent dough sheets:

and unroll them carefully on a clean, flat surface. If you're using the traditional crescent rolls with perforations, gently press along the perforations to seal them and create a solid sheet. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, divide each sheet into 4 equal rectangles for a total of 8 pieces from two cans. Each rectangle should be approximately 4×6 inches, though exact dimensions aren't critical.

Layer a slice or two of deli ham:

on each rectangle, leaving about half an inch of dough exposed on all sides. The ham should cover most of the dough without overflowing. If your ham slices are large, you may need to fold them to fit properly within the dough's boundaries.

Place a cheese stick:

on top of the ham layer, positioning it slightly off-center toward one of the short ends of the rectangle. This placement makes rolling easier and ensures proper sealing. If you're using regular block cheese instead of cheese sticks, cut it into approximately finger-sized pieces.

Carefully fold the short end of the dough:

over the cheese, then fold in the long sides to partially enclose the filling. Roll the dough forward, completely encasing the ham and cheese, and seal the final edge by gently pressing the dough together. This proper sealing is important to prevent cheese from leaking during baking.

Arrange the rolled ham and cheese sticks:

on your prepared baking sheet, placing them seam-side down about 2 inches apart to allow for expansion. Make sure they're positioned so they won't touch during baking.

In a small bowl:

combine the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion (or onion powder), and poppy seeds. Whisk together until well blended. This butter glaze adds tremendous flavor and helps the rolls achieve a beautiful golden color during baking.

Using a pastry brush:

generously coat the top and sides of each roll with the butter mixture. This not only adds flavor but also helps the dough achieve a lovely golden color and slight crispness on the exterior.

Bake in the preheated oven:

for 12-15 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed and golden brown. The exact time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking at the 10-minute mark. You're looking for a rich golden color and slightly firm texture when gently pressed.

Remove from the oven:

and allow to cool for just 2-3 minutes before serving. This brief cooling period allows the cheese to set slightly so it doesn't completely run out when bitten into, while still maintaining that perfect melty texture.

Pin it

I learned about the importance of proper sealing through a messy (though still delicious) first attempt where most of my cheese escaped during baking. Now I'm meticulous about pinching those edges and always place the rolls seam-side down to prevent cheese eruptions. The few extra seconds of careful sealing save both cheese and cleanup time!

Creative Variations

While the classic ham and cheddar combination is unbeatable, this recipe welcomes countless variations. Try turkey and Swiss with a touch of cranberry sauce for a post-Thanksgiving treat. Pepperoni and mozzarella with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning in the butter glaze creates mini pizza rolls. For a breakfast version, use breakfast sausage links and scrambled eggs with American cheese. Vegetarian options work beautifully too—try spinach and feta with a hint of nutmeg in the butter glaze.

Serving Suggestions

These ham and cheese sticks shine as a standalone snack or light meal, but they truly excel as part of a larger spread. Pair with a simple green salad for a complete lunch, or serve alongside soup for a heartier dinner. For entertaining, arrange on a platter with marinara or honey mustard dipping sauces. They make excellent additions to brunch buffets or game day feasts, as they taste great at room temperature too.

Make-Ahead Tips

The versatility of this recipe extends to preparation options. You can assemble the rolls completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking—just add 2-3 minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled start. Alternatively, bake as directed, cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat frozen rolls in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

I've come to treasure this recipe not just for its delicious results, but for its remarkable flexibility and reliability. There's something deeply satisfying about having a few simple ingredients transform into something that consistently delights everyone who tries it. Whether you're feeding finicky children or sophisticated adults, these ham and cheese sticks prove that sometimes the simplest recipes create the most joyful eating experiences—exactly what good food should do.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these Ham and Cheese Sticks ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them ahead of time and store in the refrigerator. Just brush with the butter mixture right before baking.

→ What can I serve with Ham and Cheese Sticks?

They pair well with tomato soup, fresh fruit, or a simple side salad. For dipping, try honey mustard or ranch dressing.

→ Can I use different cheese?

Absolutely! Mozzarella, pepper jack, or provolone all work great. Just make sure it's in stick form or cut into strips.

→ How do I store leftover Ham and Cheese Sticks?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until warm.

→ Can I freeze these Ham and Cheese Sticks?

Yes, freeze them after baking and cooling. Wrap individually in foil, then place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

→ What if I can't find crescent dough sheets?

Regular crescent roll dough works too! Just pinch the perforations together to create a solid sheet before cutting.