Crispy Baked Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

These crispy baked ham and cheese mozzarella sticks deliver a seriously delicious twist on classic party snacks.

Pulling apart gooey, golden-brown breaded cheese with savory ham nestled inside each bite.

cheese lovers will absolutely go crazy for this homemade version that beats any frozen appetizer.

Minimal ingredients and simple preparation make these mozzarella sticks perfect for quick gatherings or unexpected cravings.

Crunchy exterior and melted interior create the ultimate texture contrast everyone adores.

The combination of salty ham and stretchy mozzarella guarantees a crowd-pleasing treat that disappears faster than you can plate them.

Whip up this irresistible recipe and watch guests devour every single crispy morsel.

What You Need For Baked Ham And Cheese Mozzarella Sticks

• Mozzarella Sticks, Ham: Soft mozzarella cheese wrapped in savory ham creates the core of these delightful appetizers. Choose full-fat mozzarella for best melting and ham slices that are thin and pliable.

• Flour, Eggs, Panko Breadcrumbs: Essential for creating a crispy golden exterior that seals in the cheese. Select all-purpose flour, fresh eggs, and Japanese-style panko for maximum crunch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds extra flavor and helps the breading adhere to the ham and cheese sticks. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results.

• Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning: Provides depth of flavor and aromatic notes to the breading mixture. Choose high-quality dried herbs and spices for maximum taste impact.

• Cooking Spray or Olive Oil: Helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior and prevents sticking. Light misting ensures even browning.
• Marinara Sauce: Optional dipping sauce that complements the cheese and ham flavors. Select a rich, well-seasoned sauce.

Simple Steps For Baked Ham And Cheese Mozzarella Sticks

Step 1: Wrap Cheese in Savory Ham

Gently unwrap each mozzarella stick and lovingly encase it with a slice of tender ham. Ensure the ham hugs the cheese tightly, creating a delicious bundle of joy.

Step 2: Create Breading Wonderland

• First bowl: Soft, powdery flour
• Second bowl: Whisked eggs with a golden shimmer
• Third bowl: A crunchy mix of panko breadcrumbs with:
• Sprinkled Parmesan cheese
• Fragrant garlic powder
• Zesty Italian seasoning

Step 3: Dress Up Your Cheese Sticks

• First, dust with flour
• Next, dive into beaten eggs
• Finally, coat with the crispy breadcrumb mixture

Gently press the coating to create a perfect armor of flavor.

Step 4: Freeze for Perfection

Place your coated cheese sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pop them in the freezer for a cool 30-minute nap. This magical pause prevents cheese from escaping during baking.

Step 5: Fire Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 400 Fahrenheit (200 Celsius). Get ready for crispy goodness!

Step 6: Bake to Golden Brilliance

Spritz the sticks with a light olive oil mist or cooking spray. Slide them into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure an even, golden-brown crunch.

Step 7: Serve and Celebrate

Rescue your crispy mozzarella sticks from the oven. Let them cool just a moment. Serve alongside marinara sauce or your favorite dipping companion for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’ll make taste buds dance!

Helpful Tips For Baked Ham And Cheese Mozzarella Sticks

• Freeze for Perfection: Chilling the coated mozzarella sticks before baking prevents cheese from leaking and ensures a crispy, golden exterior that holds its shape beautifully.
• Customize Your Coating: Experiment with different breadcrumb blends like adding smoked paprika or chili flakes to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste buds.
• Prevent Sticking Tricks: Use parchment paper or a silicone mat when baking to ensure the cheese sticks don't adhere to the baking sheet and maintain their crisp texture.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and gluten-free panko to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Dipping Sauce Magic: Enhance the flavor by serving with homemade marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli to elevate the overall taste experience of these delicious ham and cheese sticks.

How To Keep Baked Ham And Cheese Mozzarella Sticks Crispy

• Refrigerate: Store leftover ham and cheese mozzarella sticks in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let them cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Freeze: Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
• Reheat Oven: Restore crispiness by baking frozen or refrigerated sticks at 375F for 10-12 minutes. Spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Reheat Air Fryer: Crisp up leftovers quickly in an air fryer at 350F for 3-4 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even heating and maintain their crunchy exterior.

What Goes Well With Baked Ham And Cheese Mozzarella Sticks

• Pair with Zesty Marinara Magic: Dive into a tangy marinara sauce that cuts through the rich, cheesy goodness of these ham-wrapped mozzarella sticks, creating a flavor explosion that'll make your taste buds dance.
• Complement with Crisp White Wine: Grab a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the salty ham and creamy mozzarella, bringing a refreshing twist to this appetizer.
• Enhance with Fresh Herb Salad: Whip up a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to add a bright, peppery contrast that cuts through the richness of the cheese sticks.
• Create a Dipping Duo: Serve alongside a garlic aioli or herb-infused ranch dressing for an extra layer of creamy, tangy goodness that elevates these crispy bites to a whole new level.

Tasty Twists On Baked Ham And Cheese Mozzarella Sticks

• Spicy Spanish Sensation: Wrap mozzarella sticks with serrano ham and add smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for a zesty kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese and dried oregano into the breading, then wrap with prosciutto for an authentic Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Smoky Bacon Crunch: Replace ham with crispy bacon bits mixed directly into the breadcrumb coating, creating an extra savory and crunchy exterior.
• Italian Truffle Elegance: Sprinkle truffle-infused Parmesan into the breadcrumb mixture and serve with a rich truffle aioli for a gourmet experience.

FAQs On Baked Ham And Cheese Mozzarella Sticks

• Why do I need to freeze the ham and cheese sticks before baking?

Freezing helps solidify the cheese and prevents it from completely melting out during baking. This ensures your sticks maintain their shape and create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside gooey and delicious.

• Can I use different types of ham for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use prosciutto, black forest ham, or honey ham. Choose a ham that you enjoy and complements the mozzarella’s flavor. Just make sure it’s thin enough to wrap smoothly around the cheese stick.

• What if I don't have panko breadcrumbs?

No worries! Regular breadcrumbs work just fine. The key is to mix them with Parmesan and seasonings to add extra flavor and crunch. If you want maximum crispiness, panko is slightly better, but regular breadcrumbs will still give you great results.

• How do I know when the ham and cheese sticks are perfectly cooked?

Look for a golden-brown color and a crispy exterior. When they’re done, the coating should be evenly browned and the cheese inside will be melted but not completely leaked out. Turning them halfway during baking helps ensure even cooking.

Why Baked Ham And Cheese Mozzarella Sticks Hit The Spot

• Savor Flavor-Packed Bites: These ham and cheese mozzarella sticks deliver an explosion of tasty goodness with perfectly balanced ham and gooey cheese wrapped in a crispy, golden-brown coating.
• Master Easy Preparation: Minimal cooking skills required, with simple step-by-step instructions that make this recipe approachable for home cooks of all levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs.
• Create Crowd-Pleasing Snacks: Perfect for game day, parties, or casual family gatherings, these mozzarella sticks offer a delightful twist on the classic appetizer that everyone will love and devour quickly.
• Enjoy Make-Ahead Convenience: The freezing step allows you to prepare these sticks in advance, making them an ideal option for stress-free entertaining or quick weeknight snacking with minimal last-minute effort.

Baked Ham And Cheese Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

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4.7 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Mozzarella magic brings classic ham and cheese together in crispy, golden perfection. Italian-inspired baked sticks deliver irresistible comfort with each delightful, cheesy bite you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
• 12 slices of deli ham (thinly sliced)

Coating Ingredients:

• 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (120 grams) panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Cooking Spray:

• Cooking spray or olive oil mist

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Instructions

1. Prepare the mozzarella sticks by delicately enveloping each cheese stick with a slice of ham, ensuring a snug and complete coverage. Position the wrapped sticks on a clean surface.
2. Establish a three-part breading station: populate one receptacle with flour, another with whisked eggs, and the third with a harmonious blend of panko breadcrumbs, finely grated Parmesan, aromatic garlic powder, and fragrant Italian seasoning.
3. Meticulously coat each ham-wrapped mozzarella stick by first rolling it through the flour, creating a delicate powdery layer. Immerse the floured stick into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off, then gently roll it through the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing softly to guarantee an even, adherent coating.
4. Transfer the coated sticks onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and situate them in the freezer for a minimum of 30 minutes. This crucial chilling phase prevents cheese from escaping during the baking process and helps solidify the breading.
5. Activate the oven and elevate the temperature to 400F (200C), allowing it to reach the optimal heat level for crispy transformation.
6. Lightly mist the chilled sticks with cooking spray or olive oil to enhance their golden potential. Position them in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, rotating midway to ensure uniform crispness and an appealing golden-brown exterior.
7. Once removed from the oven, permit the mozzarella sticks to cool momentarily. Serve alongside marinara sauce or your preferred dipping companion for a delectable culinary experience.

Notes

• Freezing the mozzarella sticks is crucial to prevent cheese from oozing out during baking, creating a perfectly crispy exterior with a gooey cheese center.
• Use low-moisture mozzarella for best results, as it melts more consistently and helps maintain the stick’s structural integrity during cooking.
• For a gluten-free version, swap regular flour and panko with almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs, ensuring the same crunchy texture for those with dietary restrictions.
• Experiment with different ham varieties like prosciutto or black forest ham to add unique flavor profiles and elevate the classic mozzarella stick experience.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 50mg