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Golden baked ham and cheese sticks with melted cheese and savory ham wrapped in flaky pastry, served warm with dipping sauce.

Ham and Cheese Sticks Recipe – Easy Party Snack Idea

These ham and cheese sticks are the ultimate snack for any occasion. Flaky pastry is wrapped around savory ham and gooey melted cheese, then baked until golden brown. Perfect for parties, game day, or when you’re craving a quick and delicious appetizer that everyone will love.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer, Party Food, Snack
Cuisine American-Inspired, Global Comfort Food
Servings 12 sticks (serves 4–6 people).
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet or air fryer basket
  • Parchment paper
  • Knife + cutting board
  • Pastry brush (for egg wash)
  • Mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 12 slices deli ham (smoked or honey ham)
  • 12 slices cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss)
  • 1 sheet puff pastry (or crescent roll dough, pizza dough, or tortillas)
  • 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional garnish)
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prep filling: Cut ham and cheese into strips that fit your dough.
  • Wrap: Place ham and cheese inside dough strips. Roll tightly and seal edges.
  • Egg wash: Brush tops with beaten egg for golden color. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
  • Cook:
    -Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake 15–20 minutes until golden.
    -Air fry: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until crisp.
    -Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry until golden and drain on paper towels.
  • Serve: Garnish with parsley or chives. Enjoy hot with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or marinara.

Notes

  • Ham choice: Smoked ham adds depth; honey ham adds sweetness.
  • Cheese choice: Mozzarella for stretch, cheddar for sharpness, Swiss for nuttiness.
  • Dough swaps: Puff pastry for flakiness, crescent rolls for softness, tortillas for lighter wraps.
  • Make-ahead: Assemble sticks, refrigerate unbaked up to 24 hours, then bake fresh.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days; reheat in oven for crispness.
  • Pro Tip: Don’t overstuff with cheese—it may leak during baking.
Keyword air fryer ham and cheese, baked ham and cheese, easy snack recipe, ham and cheese sticks, Party Appetizers