Why You'll Love It
- - Easy to prep, even on a busy day
- - Crispy exterior with a gooey center
- - Uses lean turkey for a lighter snack
- - Perfect for dipping or solo munching
*"Wow, these sticks are crunchy on the outside, cheesy inside—pure comfort!"*
Essential Ingredient Guide
- Turkey breast: Choose fresh, thinly sliced turkey breast for tenderness; if using leftovers, pat dry to ensure crispness.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds depth; grate finely so it melts evenly and binds the stick.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Provides a light, airy crunch; toast slightly before using for extra crisp.
- Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and a hint of color to the coating.
- Lemon zest: A splash of citrus brightens the flavor and cuts richness.
- Olive oil spray: Ensures an even golden brown without deep‑frying.
Complete Cooking Process
-
Ingredient Readiness:
Trim turkey, grate cheese, and mix breadcrumbs with spices; set out a bowl of beaten egg for binding.
-
Flavor Development:
Roll each turkey piece around cheese, then coat in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
-
Texture Control:
Lightly spray the sticks with olive oil before baking to encourage a crisp crust.
-
Finishing Touches:
Bake until golden, then let rest a minute so the cheese sets just right.
-
Serving Timing:
Serve warm, right out of the oven, with a dipping sauce of your choice.
- Pat turkey dry to avoid soggy coating
- Use a wire rack for even airflow
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each stick space
- Serve immediately for the best crunch
Pro Tips
Well, these little tricks make a big difference. When the sticks are fresh out of the oven, the cheese pulls just enough, and the breadcrumb shell stays crisp. It’s a quiet moment of satisfaction, especially if you’re sharing them with friends. Ugh, I love watching that golden glow.
The essence of the dish:
A fun fact or historical angle:
Flavor or sensory focus:
You Must Know
- Keep the cheese inside the turkey for a tidy roll
- A quick olive‑oil mist guarantees even browning
- Rest after baking lets the interior set perfectly
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use turkey ham instead of breast?
Yes, turkey ham works fine; just slice thinly and pat dry so the coating adheres.
→ What dipping sauce pairs best?
A creamy ranch, honey mustard, or a simple garlic aioli complements the salty cheese nicely.
→ Can I freeze the sticks?
Absolutely. Freeze after assembling, then bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
→ How do I make them gluten‑free?
Swap panko for gluten‑free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
→ Is there a vegetarian version?
Use firm tofu strips seasoned and baked the same way; substitute the cheese with a vegan melt.
→ Do I need to pre‑heat the oven?
Yes, pre‑heat to 425°F (220°C) for a quick, even crisp.
Chef's Tips
Oops, be sure not to over‑bake; the cheese can dry out.,If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne to the breadcrumb mix.,For extra flavor, brush the sticks with a little melted butter before the final two minutes of baking.
Nutrition Facts
per serving
320
Calories
28g
Protein
20g
Carbs
14g
Fat
Taste Profile
Savory with a comforting cheesy richness
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives
If using chicken, slice thinly and adjust bake time slightly.
Different cheeses melt differently; keep an eye on browning.
Recipe Variations
Try these delicious twists on the original
Spicy Version
Add ¼ tsp cayenne and a dash of hot sauce to the breadcrumb mix for a subtle kick.
Mediterranean Style
Mix in crumbled feta and chopped olives into the cheese filling for a briny twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results
- Overcrowding the baking sheet, leading to soggy sticks
- Skipping the egg wash, causing breadcrumbs to fall off
- Baking too long, which dries out the cheese
Meal Prep & Storage
Make Ahead Tips
You can roll and coat the sticks a day ahead, then refrigerate uncovered; bake when ready for a quick snack.
Leftover Ideas
Reheat gently in a pre‑heated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5‑7 minutes to restore crispness.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this with...
Cooking Timeline
Preheat oven and gather all ingredients.
Prepare turkey strips, place cheese, roll and coat each stick.
Bake sticks until golden, then let rest briefly.
Plate and serve with dipping sauce.
Turkey and Cheese Sticks – A Savory Snack Delight
Crispy turkey and cheese sticks are a quick, savory snack perfect for any time of day. Easy to bake and delightfully cheesy, they bring a comforting crunch that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Timing
Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 01 1 lb turkey breast, thinly sliced
- 02 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 03 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 04 1 tsp paprika
- 05 1 tsp lemon zest
- 06 1 egg, beaten
- 07 Olive oil spray
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Lay a slice of turkey flat, place a tablespoon of shredded cheddar at one end, and roll tightly.
Dip each rolled stick in the beaten egg, then coat evenly with the breadcrumb‑paprika‑zest mixture.
Arrange the sticks on the prepared sheet, spray lightly with olive oil, and bake for 15‑18 minutes until golden.
Remove, let rest a minute, then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes & Tips
- 1 Oops, be sure not to over‑bake; the cheese can dry out.
- 2 If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne to the breadcrumb mix.
- 3 For extra flavor, brush the sticks with a little melted butter before the final two minutes of baking.
Tools You'll Need
-
Baking sheet
-
Parchment paper
-
Sharp knife
-
Mixing bowls
-
Measuring spoons
-
Olive oil spray bottle
Must-Know Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, Cook in batches to keep sticks crisp
- Pat turkey dry, Allows coating to stick properly
- Taste as you go, Adjust seasoning of breadcrumbs
Professional Secrets
- Room temperature turkey, Ensures even cooking
- High heat for quick browning, Creates the perfect crust
- Rest after baking, Captures the melted cheese inside
Recipe by
Lily_HarperFrom crispy bites to soft nibbles, I’m all about snack-time happiness made simple and delicious.
Get Delicious Recipes Weekly
Join 25,000+ home cooks getting our best recipes straight to their inbox.
Free forever • No spam • Unsubscribe anytime