The aroma of freshly baked Ham and Cheese Sticks wafts through the air, making your taste buds dance with anticipation. Picture this: golden-brown, crispy edges giving way to gooey, melty cheese wrapped snugly around savory ham. It’s a symphony of flavors that hits all the right notes every time.
As I reminisce about my childhood, these delightful treats remind me of school lunches and family gatherings where laughter echoed like the crunch of each bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a comforting snack, Ham and Cheese Sticks are your go-to choice for any occasion. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Ham and Cheese Sticks are easy to whip up, making them perfect for any busy weeknight
- Their irresistible flavor profile combines salty ham with rich, melted cheese for a mouthwatering treat
- The golden crust adds visual appeal and makes them an instant crowd-pleaser
- Enjoy them as an appetizer or snack, or pair with soup for a delightful meal!
Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Sticks
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ham: Use thinly sliced deli ham for easy wrapping; feel free to choose your favorite variety.
Cheese: Opt for mozzarella or cheddar cheese that melts beautifully, creating that stretchy goodness we all love.
Puff Pastry: Store-bought puff pastry saves time and gives a flaky texture that complements the filling perfectly.
Egg Wash: A mixture of egg and water will give your sticks a beautiful golden color when baked.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Ham and Cheese Sticks
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your Ham and Cheese Sticks come off without any sticky drama.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Take your puff pastry out of the fridge and let it sit for about five minutes to soften slightly. Once it’s pliable, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about a quarter-inch thick. Think of it as giving your dough a spa day!
Step 3: Cut into Squares
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into squares (about four inches by four inches). Feel free to channel your inner artist here; they don’t have to be perfect—just delicious.
Step 4: Assemble the Filling
Place a slice of ham on each square followed by a generous sprinkle of cheese. Don’t skimp here; after all, we want these sticks to ooze goodness when you take that first bite.
Step 5: Fold and Seal
Fold each square diagonally over the filling to create triangles. Press down the edges firmly with your fingers or use a fork to seal them shut—this is key to keeping all that cheesy goodness inside.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together one egg with a splash of water to create your egg wash. Brush it generously over the tops of each triangle. This step is crucial for achieving that mouthwatering golden hue.
Transfer your delightful creations onto the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until they’re puffed up and gloriously golden brown. Serve warm alongside marinara sauce or your favorite dip for added flavor joy!
Enjoy diving into these scrumptious Ham and Cheese Sticks—with each bite transporting you back in time while also satisfying those grown-up cravings!
You Must Know
- These delightful Ham and Cheese Sticks are not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to make
- Perfect for parties, snacks, or a cozy family dinner, they bring together gooey cheese and savory ham in a crispy package that everyone will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the filling. Roll out the dough and layer it with ham and cheese before cutting into sticks. Bake until golden brown for the perfect crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ham for turkey or add some spinach for a twist! Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda to elevate those flavors even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Ham and Cheese Sticks in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until crispy again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy Ham and Cheese Sticks, ensure your dough is adequately chilled before baking
- Use high-quality cheese for maximum flavor
- Remember to leave space between sticks on the baking tray to avoid sogginess
I remember making these Ham and Cheese Sticks for my nephew’s birthday party. The kids devoured them so fast that I barely got a taste! Their smiles were worth every effort put into making them.
FAQs:
What are Ham and Cheese Sticks?
Ham and cheese sticks are a delicious snack made by wrapping slices of ham around cheese, often coated in breadcrumbs and baked or fried. They make for a crispy, savory treat perfect for parties or as an appetizer. The flavor combination of salty ham and creamy cheese makes them irresistible to both kids and adults.
How can I customize my Ham and Cheese Sticks?
You can easily customize ham and cheese sticks by using different types of cheese or adding spices to the breadcrumb coating. Consider using cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a unique taste. Additionally, you can add herbs like oregano or basil to enhance the flavor profile. This versatility allows you to create a version that suits your personal preferences.
Can I make Ham and Cheese Sticks ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare ham and cheese sticks ahead of time. Assemble them as instructed, then freeze them before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake or fry directly from the freezer. This method ensures you always have a tasty snack on hand without compromising on freshness or flavor.
Are Ham and Cheese Sticks suitable for kids?
Absolutely! Ham and cheese sticks are an excellent option for kids due to their appealing flavors and fun shape. They make great finger foods for lunchboxes or after-school snacks. Just be sure to cut them into smaller pieces if serving to younger children to minimize choking hazards.
Conclusion for Ham and Cheese Sticks:
In summary, ham and cheese sticks are a delightful snack loved by many. Their simple preparation process makes them accessible for cooks of all skill levels. By customizing the ingredients and preparing them ahead of time, you can enjoy this savory treat at your convenience. Serve these versatile bites at gatherings or as everyday snacks, satisfying both kids and adults alike with their delicious flavor combination.
Ham and Cheese Sticks
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 sticks 1x
Description
Ham and Cheese Sticks are a delightful combination of crispy pastry, savory ham, and gooey cheese that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these treats are easy to prepare and sure to impress at any gathering. Bake them until golden brown and serve with marinara sauce for a satisfying treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 8 oz thinly sliced deli ham
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 sheet (about 17.3 oz) thawed puff pastry
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until about ¼ inch thick.
- Cut the pastry into four-inch squares.
- Place a slice of ham and a generous amount of cheese on each square.
- Fold each square diagonally to form triangles and seal the edges using your fingers or a fork.
- Whisk together the egg and water, then brush over each triangle.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stick (45g)
- Calories: 152
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 33mg
