Ham and Cheese Sticks are a simple and tasty snack that bring together the salty flavor of ham and the creamy, melty goodness of cheese wrapped up in a crispy, golden crust. They’re like little handheld bites of comfort that are perfect for anytime you want something satisfying and quick. The combination of savory ham and gooey cheese is a classic that never gets old.
I love making these because they’re super easy to prepare, and everyone always asks for more. I like to use a little bit of mustard or mayo inside the roll for an extra touch of flavor, but even plain ham and cheese wrapped up works beautifully. Plus, they’re great for busy days when you need a grab-and-go snack or something tasty to serve when friends drop by unexpectedly.
My favorite way to enjoy Ham and Cheese Sticks is warm right out of the oven, with a side of ketchup or a simple dipping sauce. They’re perfect for lunchboxes, casual get-togethers, or as an afternoon pick-me-up. It’s one of those snacks that feels cozy and familiar, reminding me of easy family meals and fun, relaxed moments around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ham: Deli ham works great here for its thin, flexible slices that roll easily. If you want less salt, try turkey slices or even cooked bacon strips for a smoky twist.
Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully, giving you that gooey texture. If you like a sharper flavor, cheddar or provolone are tasty alternatives.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice crunchy topping with its salty flavor. You can swap it with Pecorino Romano or omit it for a milder finish.
Garlic Powder & Herbs: These add extra flavor without much fuss. If fresh herbs are available, chopped parsley or oregano can be sprinkled on after baking for freshness.
How Do You Get Crispy, Golden Ham and Cheese Sticks?
Making the rolls crispy yet keeping the cheese melted is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Roll the ham slices tightly with the cheese inside – this helps the cheese melt evenly without leaking out.
- Coat the outside with Parmesan, garlic, and herbs – this forms a delicious crust.
- Spray or brush the rolls lightly with oil or butter before baking to promote browning.
- Bake in a hot oven (400°F/200°C) for about 12-15 minutes until the ham edges are crispy and cheese is melted.
- Let them rest a bit before serving—this helps the cheese settle so you don’t burn your mouth!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I recommend one with a rim to keep the cheese from spilling over.
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray – makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
- Small bowl – for mixing the Parmesan, garlic, and herbs.
- Knife – to cut the ham if needed and to help with filling and rolling.
- Brush or spray – for coating the rolls with butter or oil before baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use pepperoni or salami instead of ham for a spicier flavor.
- Add a slice of pickle or jalapeño inside for some crunch and spice.
- Sprinkle some shredded Parmesan or Monterey Jack cheese inside for extra cheesiness.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano in the Parmesan mixture for a more vibrant flavor.
Ham and Cheese Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 slices of deli ham
- 8 slices of mozzarella cheese (or your preferred melting cheese)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning & Finishing:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or parsley (optional)
- Cooking spray or a little butter for greasing the pan
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 12-15 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’ll have your tasty Ham and Cheese Sticks ready in about 25 minutes including a short cooling time before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Assemble the Ham and Cheese Rolls:
Lay out each slice of ham flat on a clean surface. Place one slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each ham slice. Carefully roll the ham around the cheese tightly to create neat sticks.
3. Season and Coat the Rolls:
In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried herbs if using. Sprinkle and press this mixture generously all over the outside of each ham and cheese roll.
4. Bake to Perfection:
Arrange the rolls seam side down on your prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush the outside of the rolls with cooking spray or melted butter to help them brown nicely in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the ham turn crispy and the cheese inside melts and becomes gooey.
5. Cool and Serve:
Remove your Ham and Cheese Sticks from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This lets the cheese set just enough so that the rolls hold together while you enjoy them. Garnish with extra herbs if you like, then serve warm.
Can I Use Frozen Ham or Cheese for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure both the ham and cheese are fully thawed before rolling. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. This helps the cheese melt properly and prevents sogginess.
Can I Make Ham and Cheese Sticks Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls and place them on the baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold rolls.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Ham and Cheese Sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to keep them crispy.
Can I Use Different Cheeses or Meats?
Yes! Feel free to swap mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack. You can also use turkey, salami, or pepperoni instead of ham for different flavors.