Ham and Cheese Sticks

### **Ham and Cheese Sticks 🧀**

These Ham and Cheese Sticks are a delightful, savory treat that combines the crispy, buttery goodness of crescent dough with the rich flavors of ham and melty cheddar cheese. Ideal for parties, game days, or a quick snack, these sticks are easy to prepare and guaranteed to please a crowd.

#### **Ingredients:**

– **2 tubes crescent dough sheets:** These pre-made dough sheets save time and effort, providing a buttery and flaky base for your sticks.
– **1 lb deli-sliced ham:** Thinly sliced ham adds a savory depth to each bite.
– **8 cheddar cheese sticks:** Cheese sticks melt beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy center.
– **¼ cup butter, melted:** Adds richness and helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
– **1 tsp Worcestershire sauce:** Adds a tangy, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste.
– **½ Tbsp Dijon mustard:** Provides a touch of sharpness and depth of flavor.
– **½ Tbsp dried minced onion or onion powder:** Gives a hint of onion flavor that complements the ham and cheese.
– **½ Tbsp poppy seeds:** Adds a touch of crunch and a subtle nutty flavor to the sticks.

#### **Instructions:**

**1. Preheat the Oven:**

– Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the sticks bake evenly and achieve a perfect golden brown color.
– Prepare your baking sheet by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the sticks from sticking and make cleanup easier.

**2. Prepare the Dough:**

– Roll out the crescent dough sheets on a clean surface. If you’re using pre-made dough, it should come ready to roll.
– Cut each dough sheet into 4 pieces. You should end up with 8 pieces total. Each piece will be used to wrap around the ham and cheese.

**3. Assemble the Sticks:**

– Take a slice of deli ham and lay it on top of each dough piece. You can overlap the ham slightly to ensure each stick is well-filled.
– Place a cheddar cheese stick on top of the ham. The cheese will melt and create a deliciously gooey center.
– Fold the ends of the dough over the filling and roll it up tightly to seal everything inside. Make sure the dough is well-sealed to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking.

**4. Prepare the Butter Mixture:**

– In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion or onion powder, and poppy seeds. This mixture will be brushed over the sticks before baking, adding flavor and a beautiful golden finish.

**5. Bake the Sticks:**

– Arrange the assembled sticks on the prepared baking sheet. Space them out to ensure even cooking and browning.
– Using a brush, apply the butter mixture generously over each stick. This helps to enhance the flavor and achieve a crispy, golden crust.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary depending on your oven. The sticks should be golden brown and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.

**6. Serve and Enjoy:**

– Once baked, remove the sticks from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. This allows the cheese to set a bit, making them easier to handle.
– Serve the Ham and Cheese Sticks warm for the best texture and flavor. They are perfect on their own, but you can also pair them with dipping sauces like mustard, ranch, or marinara if desired.

### **Tips for Success:**

– **Seal Well:** Ensure that the dough is tightly sealed around the filling to prevent the cheese from oozing out during baking.
– **Even Spacing:** Place the sticks with some space between them on the baking sheet to allow for even cooking and to prevent them from sticking together.
– **Creative Variations:** Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the butter mixture for extra flavor.

### **Prep Time:** 15 minutes | **Cook Time:** 12-15 minutes | **Total Time:** 27-30 minutes | **Servings:** 8

These Ham and Cheese Sticks are a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of ham and cheese in a new and delicious form. They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or make for a comforting snack anytime. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite! 🧀