I remember being utterly fascinated watching my mom in the kitchen, especially when she was making something with pizza dough. The way she could transform it into so many different things seemed like magic. These cheesy turkey sticks were one of my absolute favorites; the aroma of garlic and warm cheese baking in the oven always filled our home with such comforting vibes.
It wasn’t just about the taste, though. It was about the feeling of togetherness, the anticipation of sharing something delicious that my mom had made with love. Every bite was a little piece of happiness. That’s why I still make these today – they’re a simple way to bring that same joy to my own family, and bring back memories of my childhood. Plus, they’re great with a side of this coconut snowball cake recipe.
Why you’ll love this Cheesy Turkey & Cheese Sticks with Cheesy Turkey Sticks
- These cheesy turkey sticks are incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick snack or light meal when you’re short on time.
- The combination of melted mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese with savory diced turkey creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
- These sticks are a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked turkey from your holiday dinner or a Sunday roast.
- The flaky, golden-brown crust provides a satisfying crunch that complements the soft, cheesy filling.
- These cheesy turkey sticks are customizable – feel free to add your favorite herbs, spices, or vegetables to the filling for a unique twist.
- They are perfect for parties, game nights, or even a simple weeknight dinner, making them a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 package (14.1 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced cooked turkey
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions
Step 1
Cheesy turkey sticks makes every moment feel uplifting. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, cooked turkey, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well. This mixture will become the delicious filling for our cheesy turkey sticks.
Step 3
Unroll the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Gently stretch or roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12×16 inches. This will give you plenty of surface area to work with.
Step 4
Spread the cheese and turkey mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border along the edges. This helps to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
Step 5
Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. This ensures a neat and tidy roll.
Step 6
Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick sticks. Place the sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each. This will allow them to bake evenly.
Step 7
Brush the tops of the cheese sticks with the beaten egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color and a slightly glossy finish.
Step 8
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 9
Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm. This allows the cheese to cool down slightly and prevents burning your mouth.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
Want to kick up the flavor a notch? Try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a bit of heat. You could also incorporate some finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added texture and nutrients. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese combinations too!
Another great variation is to use different types of cooked poultry. Diced chicken works just as well as turkey, providing a similar savory flavor profile. You can even add a dollop of cream cheese to the mixture for an extra creamy texture. This addition will make the filling even more decadent and irresistible.
For a vegetarian option, simply omit the turkey and add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach. These alternatives will provide a satisfying and flavorful filling. Remember to adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the new ingredients. A touch of smoked paprika can add a nice depth of flavor to the vegetarian version.
Pairings
These cheesy turkey sticks are fantastic on their own, but they’re even better when paired with the right accompaniments. A simple marinara sauce is a classic choice for dipping. Its tangy sweetness complements the savory cheese and turkey perfectly.
For a lighter option, try serving them with a side of fresh vegetables and a creamy dipping sauce. Ranch dressing or a homemade garlic aioli would be delicious. The crispness of the vegetables provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese sticks.
If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, consider pairing these cheesy turkey sticks with a side salad or a bowl of soup. A hearty tomato soup or a crisp Caesar salad would be excellent choices. You can even check out this recipe for key lime pound cake recipe on Cook Reel to create a complete and balanced meal.
Serving ideas
Presentation is key when serving these cheesy turkey sticks. Arrange them artfully on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This adds a touch of elegance and visual appeal.
For a casual gathering, serve them in a basket lined with parchment paper. This creates a rustic and inviting presentation. Don’t forget to include a variety of dipping sauces for your guests to choose from.
To take these cheesy turkey sticks to the next level, consider serving them with a homemade dipping sauce. A creamy pesto sauce or a spicy sriracha mayo would be delicious. You can find inspiration and recipes for other creative appetizers on Cook Reel to create a memorable spread.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Leftover cheesy turkey sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing them.
To reheat, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quick and easy reheat. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can make the cheese rubbery.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cheesy turkey sticks. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Make-ahead
These cheesy turkey sticks are a great make-ahead option for parties or busy weeknights. You can prepare the cheese and turkey mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This will save you time when you’re ready to assemble the sticks.
You can also assemble the sticks completely and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes them even more delicious. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent the dough from drying out.
If you’re making them further in advance, you can freeze the assembled sticks before baking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, simply add a few minutes to the baking time.
Common mistakes when making Cheesy Turkey & Cheese Sticks
- Overfilling the dough: Adding too much cheese and turkey mixture can make the sticks difficult to roll and cause the filling to spill out during baking. Be sure to spread the filling evenly and avoid overfilling.
- Not sealing the seam properly: If the seam isn’t sealed tightly, the cheese and turkey mixture can leak out during baking. Pinch the seam firmly to ensure a secure closure.
- Overbaking: Overbaking can make the crust dry and the cheese rubbery. Keep a close eye on the sticks while they’re baking and remove them from the oven as soon as they’re golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Using cold pizza dough: Cold pizza dough can be difficult to work with and may not roll out evenly. Allow the dough to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out.
Final notes
Cheesy turkey sticks are a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory turkey and melted cheese wrapped in a flaky crust is simply irresistible. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations to create your own signature version.
These sticks are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or a light meal, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a batch of warm, cheesy goodness.
With a little bit of practice, you’ll be making these cheesy turkey sticks like a pro in no time. Enjoy the process and savor every bite!
Loved this Cheesy Turkey & Cheese Sticks? Try these next
Cheesy Turkey & Cheese Sticks
These cheesy turkey and cheese sticks are the perfect quick and easy snack or light meal. Flaky, golden brown, and packed with savory flavors, they’re sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 package (14.1 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced cooked turkey
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, cooked turkey, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Unroll the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Gently stretch or roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12×16 inches.
- Spread the cheese and turkey mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border along the edges.
- Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick sticks. Place the sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
- Brush the tops of the cheese sticks with the beaten egg wash.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture. Store leftover cheese sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. Serve with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg