These Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls are a delightful fusion of savory ham and melted cheese wrapped in a flaky, golden crescent dough. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a comforting bite that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family movie night, or simply craving a quick snack, these rolls are sure to please. Their versatility allows for customization with different cheeses or additional herbs, making them a go-to recipe for any gathering.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 tubes crescent dough sheets
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1 lb deli-sliced ham
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8 cheddar cheese sticks
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¼ cup butter, melted
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1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
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½ Tbsp Dijon mustard
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½ Tbsp dried minced onion or onion powder
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½ Tbsp poppy seeds
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
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Roll out the crescent dough sheets and cut each one into 4 pieces, creating 8 pieces in total.
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Distribute the ham evenly among the 8 pieces of dough. Place a cheddar cheese stick on top of the ham on each piece. Fold in the ends of each piece and then roll to seal.
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Place the prepared sticks on the prepared baking sheet.
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In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, onion, and poppy seeds.
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Brush the butter mixture over each stick.
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Place in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
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Enjoy your Ham and Cheese Sticks hot and fresh from the oven!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 250 kcal per serving | Servings: 8
A Classic Comfort Food That Never Fails
Ham and cheese is one of the most iconic food pairings in the world, beloved across cultures and cuisines. When wrapped in buttery crescent dough and baked to a golden perfection, this combination transforms into a warm, comforting treat that’s hard to resist. Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls, also known as Ham and Cheese Sticks, are more than just an appetizer—they’re a versatile, family-friendly dish that works for breakfast, brunch, lunch, snack time, or party platters. They bring together the rich, savory flavor of deli ham and the creamy meltiness of cheddar cheese in a handheld form that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
The Perfect Party Appetizer or Quick Snack
Whether you’re throwing a holiday party, hosting a game night, or just looking for a quick weekday snack, these crescent-wrapped delights fit the bill. They come together in less than 30 minutes and require just a handful of common kitchen ingredients. Because they’re portable and finger-friendly, they’re great for sharing and perfect for buffet tables or lunchboxes. One of the best parts about this recipe is that it’s kid-approved yet sophisticated enough to please adults as well.
A Crowd-Pleaser with Endless Variations
While the basic recipe features ham and cheddar, it’s incredibly easy to mix things up depending on your taste preferences. Try swapping cheddar with mozzarella for a gooey, stringy finish, or add a bit of spicy pepper jack for a kick. You can even incorporate other ingredients like thinly sliced tomatoes, caramelized onions, or fresh herbs to elevate the flavor. Want to go gourmet? Add a thin layer of fig jam or honey mustard before rolling for a sweet and tangy twist. The dough is your canvas, and this recipe is extremely forgiving to experimentation.
Kid-Friendly and Lunchbox-Ready
Parents love recipes that are both delicious and simple to prepare, especially when they double as a school lunch option. These Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls can be made in advance, refrigerated, and enjoyed later either cold or warmed up. They’re mess-free, easy to hold, and loved by kids of all ages. If your child is a picky eater, this dish offers familiar flavors in a fun presentation that’s likely to get two thumbs up. They’re also great for meal prepping—make a batch on Sunday and have grab-and-go snacks ready all week.
Perfect for Breakfast or Brunch Tables
If you’re planning a brunch spread or hosting a weekend breakfast for family or friends, this dish adds warmth and indulgence to the menu. Serve them alongside fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or a light salad for a balanced meal. The buttery crescent dough provides that comforting, pastry-like texture, while the melted cheese offers richness and flavor. These rolls can be dressed up with garnish or sauces, such as a side of Dijon mustard, ranch dip, or even a spicy aioli for dipping.
A Budget-Friendly, Time-Saving Recipe
Not only are these Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls quick to make, but they’re also extremely budget-friendly. With just a few ingredients—many of which you might already have in your fridge—you can make a whole tray of satisfying, cheesy rolls. No special equipment is needed, and cleanup is a breeze. For busy families, college students, or anyone trying to save time and money in the kitchen, this is a winning recipe to keep on hand.
Great for Entertaining
If you’re having guests over, this is the kind of recipe that’ll earn you compliments without the stress. You can prepare the rolls in advance and pop them into the oven just before serving. They look impressive on a platter and are guaranteed to disappear quickly. Consider pairing them with a wine or cocktail if you’re entertaining adults, or serve them alongside juice or sparkling water for a more casual gathering.
Tips for Making Them Even Better
To take your Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls to the next level, consider brushing the tops with an egg wash before baking to achieve a deeper golden color. You can also sprinkle some grated parmesan, sesame seeds, or dried herbs over the rolls just before baking for added flavor and presentation. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can pre-bake the crescent dough for 2-3 minutes before adding the fillings and finishing the roll-up process.
Freezer-Friendly and Great for Batch Cooking
This recipe freezes beautifully, which means you can double or triple the batch and store extras for later. Simply prepare the rolls as usual, let them cool completely after baking, and then freeze in an airtight container or zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore that flaky texture. This makes them a great solution for busy weeknights, school mornings, or unexpected guests.
Healthy Twists and Dietary Alternatives
While the traditional version is indulgent, you can make a few simple tweaks to create a lighter or more nutritious version. Use reduced-fat cheese or leaner cuts of ham, or go plant-based with meatless deli slices and vegan cheese. There are also gluten-free crescent dough alternatives available in most grocery stores for those with dietary restrictions. Pair the rolls with a side of salad or veggies for a more balanced meal without compromising on taste.
Serving Ideas for Every Occasion
Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls are incredibly versatile when it comes to presentation. For brunch, serve them on a wooden board with fruit and fresh herbs. For parties, arrange them on a tiered tray with dipping sauces and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. For lunchboxes, wrap them in parchment paper and pair with sliced apples or carrot sticks. They’re also perfect for picnics and potlucks—portable, packable, and loved by all.
The Comfort Food You’ll Keep Coming Back To
At their core, these rolls are nostalgic and comforting. They remind many of childhood lunches, after-school snacks, or cozy holiday gatherings. They’re the kind of recipe that becomes a staple in your kitchen because it never fails. Whether you’re making them for a celebration or a lazy Sunday afternoon, they bring warmth and joy with every bite.
Conclusion
Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls are more than just a quick recipe—they’re a delightful celebration of simple ingredients and timeless flavors. Their ease of preparation, endless customization options, and universal appeal make them a go-to in any household. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, entertaining friends, or just indulging in something cozy and satisfying, this dish is sure to become a beloved favorite. Add it to your weekly meal rotation, keep it in mind for your next gathering, or batch-freeze it for emergency snack cravings—no matter how or when you serve them, these golden, cheesy rolls deliver every time.