Crispy Ham and Cheese Sticks

Crispy Ham and Cheese Sticks Recipe (Easy 20-Minute Snack Everyone Loves)

If you’re looking for a quick, cheesy, crowd-pleasing snack that disappears faster than you can make it, these Ham and Cheese Sticks are it. Crispy on the outside, melty on the inside, and incredibly easy to throw together, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, game day spreads, or last-minute appetizers when guests show up hungry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These ham and cheese sticks check all the right boxes. They’re fast, affordable, kid-approved, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your fridge. You don’t need any fancy cooking skills, and the recipe is flexible enough to customize based on what you like or what you have on hand. Best of all, they bake up golden and crispy while the cheese inside stays perfectly gooey.

Serving Size and Time Breakdown

Serving Size
Makes 10 to 12 ham and cheese sticks

Prep Time
10 minutes

Cook Time
10 minutes

Total Time
20 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Required

You won’t need much to make this recipe, which is another reason it’s so popular.

Baking sheet
Parchment paper or nonstick spray
Small bowl for egg wash
Pastry brush
Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

10 to 12 slices of deli ham
10 to 12 mozzarella cheese sticks or sliced mozzarella
1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough or puff pastry
1 egg, beaten
Optional seasoning: garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or black pepper

How to Make Ham and Cheese Sticks

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. If using puff pastry, cut into long rectangles.
3. Place one slice of ham on each piece of dough, trimming if necessary so it fits neatly.
4. Lay a cheese stick on top of the ham.
5. Roll the dough tightly around the ham and cheese, making sure the ends are sealed to prevent leaking.
6. Place each roll seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Brush the tops lightly with beaten egg and sprinkle with optional seasoning if desired.
8. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
9. Let cool slightly before serving so the cheese sets just enough to bite into.

Tips for the Best Ham and Cheese Sticks

Use low-moisture cheese to reduce leaking while baking.
Seal the dough tightly around the cheese, especially at the ends.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet so they cook evenly.
Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overfilling the dough, which causes cheese to ooze out.
Skipping parchment paper, making cleanup harder.
Baking at too low a temperature, which prevents crispiness.
Using very thick ham slices that make rolling difficult.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, pepper jack, or Swiss.
Use turkey or chicken instead of ham for a lighter version.
Add a thin layer of mustard or honey mustard inside for extra flavor.
Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top before baking for added crunch.
Try puff pastry for a flakier, bakery-style result.

How to Store and Meal Prep

Store leftover ham and cheese sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to restore crispiness. These also freeze well before baking. Assemble them, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2 to 3 extra minutes to the cook time.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve with marinara sauce, honey mustard, or ranch for dipping.
Pair with a simple side salad for a light lunch.
Add them to a game day platter with sliders and chips.
Cut them in half for bite-sized party appetizers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes. Air fry at 360°F for 6 to 8 minutes, checking halfway through.

Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

What dough works best?
Crescent roll dough is easiest, but puff pastry gives a flakier texture.

Why is my cheese leaking out?
The dough may not be sealed tightly enough, or the cheese used has high moisture.

Related Post: Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado

Conclusion

These Crispy Ham and Cheese Sticks are one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. They’re simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable, making them perfect for everything from quick snacks to party food. Once you try them, don’t be surprised if they become a regular request in your kitchen. Save this recipe, pin it for later, and enjoy every cheesy bite.