These Ham and Cheese Sticks are the perfect balance of savory ham, gooey melted cheese, and a crispy golden exterior. They’re easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying as a snack, appetizer, or even a light dinner option.
Serve these sticks with your favorite dipping sauce, like mustard or marinara, for an extra punch of flavor. They’re simple yet delicious and will definitely become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want something quick for dinner, these crispy ham and cheese rolls are sure to please!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lay the slices of ham flat on a clean surface. Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each ham slice.
- Roll up the ham and cheese tightly, securing them with toothpicks if necessary.
- In a shallow bowl, beat the egg and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Place the bread crumbs in another shallow dish.
- Dip each ham and cheese roll into the egg mixture, then coat it in the bread crumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, cook the ham and cheese rolls for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Transfer the rolls to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese inside is melted and the rolls are crispy.
- Remove toothpicks before serving, if used.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 270 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Ham and Cheese Sticks: A Delicious Snack for Every Occasion
Ham and Cheese Sticks are the ultimate comfort food that combines the savory goodness of ham with the melt-in-your-mouth creaminess of cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy golden crust. Whether you’re looking for a snack to enjoy during movie night, a fun appetizer for your next gathering, or a quick and satisfying meal, these Ham and Cheese Sticks are sure to hit the spot. They’re easy to make, and the best part is that they’re versatile enough to be paired with a variety of dips or served alongside a fresh salad.
In this article, we will explore how to make these delicious Ham and Cheese Sticks, tips to make them even better, and the many variations you can try to customize this dish for your personal taste. Plus, we’ll dive into why they are a great option for both kids and adults alike.
The Appeal of Ham and Cheese Sticks
One of the main reasons Ham and Cheese Sticks have become such a popular dish is because of their satisfying combination of flavors and textures. The saltiness of the ham pairs wonderfully with the richness of the cheese, while the crunchy outer layer adds a satisfying bite that contrasts beautifully with the gooey interior. This balance of flavors and textures is what makes these sticks so irresistible.
Additionally, these sticks are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family, a group of friends, or just for yourself, the simplicity of the recipe allows you to prepare them in no time without compromising on flavor.
Ham and Cheese Sticks as a Versatile Snack
One of the best things about Ham and Cheese Sticks is their versatility. While they are traditionally served as a snack or appetizer, they can also be enjoyed as a main dish. You can make them bigger to serve as a hearty meal or serve them with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad to balance out the richness. The beauty of these sticks is that they are adaptable to any occasion.
For those looking to add more excitement to their Ham and Cheese Sticks, you can also experiment with different types of cheese. While Swiss cheese is a classic choice, mozzarella, cheddar, or even gouda can be used to create a completely new flavor profile. The same goes for the type of ham – you can use prosciutto, smoked ham, or even turkey ham for a different twist.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Family Gatherings
Ham and Cheese Sticks are also perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare a batch in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and reheat them whenever you’re in the mood for a quick snack or meal. Their portability makes them an excellent choice for packing in lunchboxes or taking along on a picnic.
Additionally, these sticks are a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings or parties. The crispy golden crust and the cheesy, ham-filled center are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Serve them on a platter with a selection of dipping sauces like mustard, ketchup, or even a creamy ranch dip, and you have a party-ready snack that’s sure to impress.
Healthier Alternatives for Ham and Cheese Sticks
While Ham and Cheese Sticks are delicious as they are, you can easily make them healthier by modifying a few ingredients. For instance, you can opt for whole-grain bread crumbs instead of traditional white bread crumbs to add more fiber and nutrients. Additionally, using a lower-fat cheese or leaner cuts of ham can reduce the overall fat and calorie content without sacrificing flavor.
For a lighter version of the dish, you can bake the Ham and Cheese Sticks in the oven instead of frying them. This method will give you the same crispy texture but without the added oil. You can also try air frying them, which is another great way to enjoy a crispy exterior without all the extra calories.
The Right Dips to Pair With Ham and Cheese Sticks
Ham and Cheese Sticks are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when paired with the perfect dip. Here are a few great options to try:
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Mustard: A tangy mustard dip is the perfect complement to the savory flavors of the ham and cheese. Whether you prefer Dijon, honey mustard, or yellow mustard, this dip is a classic choice.
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Marinara Sauce: If you’re craving a little more Italian flair, marinara sauce is a great option. The acidity of the tomato sauce balances out the richness of the cheese and ham.
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Ranch Dressing: For those who love creamy dips, ranch dressing is an ideal choice. Its cool, herby flavor pairs wonderfully with the warm, crispy Ham and Cheese Sticks.
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Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic aioli adds an extra layer of richness and flavor to each bite, giving the dish a gourmet twist.
Why Ham and Cheese Sticks Are Great for Kids
Getting kids to eat more protein and vegetables can sometimes be a challenge, but Ham and Cheese Sticks make it easy and fun. The crispy exterior is appealing to kids, and the gooey, melty cheese inside is always a hit. Since these sticks are handheld, they’re perfect for little hands to grab and dip into their favorite sauces.
Additionally, you can easily sneak in some extra veggies by adding thin slices of bell peppers or spinach to the ham and cheese rolls. Not only will this boost the nutritional content of the dish, but it also gives kids a fun way to enjoy their veggies without even realizing it!
Ham and Cheese Sticks: A Perfect Addition to Any Meal
Whether you’re looking for a simple snack, a fun appetizer for a party, or a quick weeknight dinner, Ham and Cheese Sticks are an excellent choice. They are customizable, easy to make, and universally loved. Plus, they’re an ideal dish to keep on hand for those moments when you want something hearty yet satisfying.
These Ham and Cheese Sticks are a great option for meal prep, a party snack, or even a comfort food dinner. You can customize the recipe by trying different types of cheese, ham, or breading. Whether you bake, fry, or air fry them, this dish is sure to impress your friends and family with its delicious flavors and crispy exterior. So next time you’re looking for a quick, tasty treat, these Ham and Cheese Sticks are the way to go!
Conclusion
Ham and Cheese Sticks are the perfect savory snack or appetizer that everyone will enjoy. With their crispy, golden exterior and cheesy, ham-filled center, they are the ideal comfort food for any occasion. The versatility of the recipe allows for plenty of room for customization, whether you’re trying different types of cheese, ham, or dipping sauces. These sticks are also great for meal prepping, family gatherings, or parties, making them a convenient and delicious option to have on hand at all times.
Not only are Ham and Cheese Sticks a hit with both kids and adults, but they can be made healthier by choosing leaner cuts of meat, whole-grain breadcrumbs, and baking instead of frying. So next time you need a quick and satisfying meal or snack, make sure to whip up a batch of Ham and Cheese Sticks – they’re sure to be a favorite in your household!