Ham and Cheese Sticks: Easy Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes!

Ham and Cheese Sticks, oh, the memories they bring back! Picture this: it’s a chilly Sunday afternoon in Queens, the aroma of warm bread and melting cheese fills Nonna’s kitchen, and laughter echoes through the air. That’s where our love for Ham and Cheese Sticks truly blossomed. 

These aren't just any Ham and Cheese Sticks. They’re a testament to simple pleasures, quick comfort, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. This delightful snack has been a staple in our families for generations, and honestly, who can resist a warm, cheesy bite of goodness, especially on a cozy afternoon? Come, let's share this simple recipe from our kitchen to yours.

Why You Will Love This Ham and Cheese Sticks Recipe

Why settle for something bland when you can have these delightful Ham and Cheese Sticks? We adore this recipe because it's incredibly comforting. In just a short amount of time you get a quick, warm snack. Perfect for those moments when you need a little pick me up.

Beyond the speed and ease, the flavour is simply irresistible. There's something so satisfying about the combination of salty ham and gooey melted cheese wrapped in a soft, golden crust. They strike a chord with adults and kids alike!

One of our fondest memories is when Maria’s grandson, little Marco, after a long day at school would come running into the kitchen shouting “Nonna, cheese sticks, please!”. This recipe isn’t just about food; it's also filled with love, tradition, and the warmth of home.

Ingredients Needed for This Ham and Cheese Sticks Recipe

Here’s everything you'll need to create these delectable treats. We always emphasize using quality ingredients; it really does make a difference!

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup warm milk (105 115°F)
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

For the Filling:

• 4 ounces thinly sliced ham
• 4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese

For Brushing:

• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• Optional: everything bagel seasoning

How to Make This Ham and Cheese Sticks Recipe

Making these Ham and Cheese Sticks is easier than you might think. So even if you are new to baking, follow these step-by-step instructions and you will yield perfect results.

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.

2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes.

3. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

5. Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 12×16 inches.

6. Add the Filling: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along one edge. Top with the thinly sliced ham.

7. Roll and Cut: Starting from the opposite edge without a border, carefully roll the dough up tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.

8. Slice the Sticks: Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1 inch thick sticks.

9. Arrange and Bake: Place the Ham and Cheese Sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning, if desired.

10. Bake: Bake for 15 20 minutes, or until the sticks are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

11. Cool and Serve: Let the Ham and Cheese Sticks cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm and enjoy! Feel free to bake another batch of Ham And Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees 2.

How to Serve This Ham and Cheese Sticks Recipe

These warm, comforting Ham and Cheese Sticks are perfect on their own as a quick snack or appetizer. A side of marinara sauce makes a delicious dipping option.

They also pair wonderfully with a simple green salad for a light lunch. Imagine biting into a warm, cheesy stick followed by the cool, crispness of fresh greens. Delizioso!

For a more substantial meal, you can serve them alongside a bowl of hearty tomato soup. The combination of the creamy soup and the savoury cheese sticks is pure comfort food. If you prefer, try something similar with our Ham And Cheese Egg Cups Recipe.

How to Store This Ham and Cheese Sticks Recipe

To keep your Ham and Cheese Sticks fresh and delicious, follow these simple storage guidelines:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help prevent them from drying out.

• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the baked Ham and Cheese Sticks. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen sticks in the refrigerator overnight. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quick reheat, but be mindful that they may become slightly softer.

Tips to Make This Ham and Cheese Sticks Recipe

To ensure your Ham and Cheese Sticks come out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:

• Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Provolone, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack cheese would be great alternatives. You can also substitute the ham with turkey or salami if you prefer.

• Success Tips: Make sure your yeast is fresh for optimal rise. Also, don't overknead the dough, as this can result in tough sticks.

• Common Mistakes to Avoid: Be careful not to overfill the dough with ham and cheese, as this can make it difficult to roll up.

• Pro Tips: Brushing the sticks with melted butter before baking gives them a beautiful golden color and adds extra flavour. Don't forget to Follow us on Pinterest for more amazing recipes!

Helpful Notes for This Ham and Cheese Sticks Recipe

A few extra details to ensure your Ham and Cheese Sticks adventure goes smoothly:

• Yeast Details: Always check the expiration date on your yeast package. If your yeast is old, it may not activate properly.

• Ham Details: Use good quality ham for the best flavour. Deli sliced ham works perfectly, but you can also use leftover cooked ham.

• Equipment Recommendation: A good quality rolling pin and a sharp knife will make rolling and cutting the dough much easier. We adore our wooden rolling pins.

Variation of This Ham and Cheese Sticks Recipe

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are a few variations to try:

• Seasonal Twists: Add a sprinkle of dried herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for a festive flavour during the holidays. Fresh herbs will work as well.

• Optional Versions: For a vegetarian option, replace the ham with roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.

• Creative Modifications: Add a layer of pesto or sundried tomato paste before adding the cheese and ham for a burst of flavour. You can also sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a cheesy crust. You can take inspiration from our Ham And Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

There you have it: a timeless recipe for Ham and Cheese Sticks, straight from our Nonna’s Dishes kitchen to your heart. It’s about more than just a tasty snack; it’s about creating memories and sharing warmth with those you love. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked Ham and Cheese Sticks fill your home. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do and look forward to hearing your thoughts and seeing your yummy creations!

Ham and Cheese Sticks: Easy Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes!

Warm, comforting Ham and Cheese Sticks are the perfect snack or appetizer. This easy recipe is straight from Nonna’s kitchen and is sure to become a family favorite!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Yield: 16 sticks
Category: Snack
Cuisine: Italian American

Nutrition:

Calories: 220
Protein: 10g
Carbs: 20g
Fat: 12g

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup warm milk (105 115°F)
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 4 ounces thinly sliced ham
• 4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• Optional: everything bagel seasoning

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 12×16 inches.
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along one edge. Top with the thinly sliced ham.
8. Starting from the opposite edge without a border, carefully roll the dough up tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
9. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1 inch thick sticks.
10. Place the Ham and Cheese Sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning, if desired.
11. Bake for 15 20 minutes, or until the sticks are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Let the Ham and Cheese Sticks cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• For optimal rise, make sure that the yeast you use is fresh.
• Swap cheddar for other cheeses like mozzarella or provolone.
• Add a layer of pesto along the fillings for an interesting twist.

• Author
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Maria Rossi

Maria Rossi specializes in delicious pizzas tailored to dietary needs. Whether gluten-free, vegan, or alternative recipes, Maria is dedicated to making pizza accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Her innovative approach blends health and flavor, proving that dietary restrictions don’t mean compromising on taste.

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