The aroma of crispy, golden Ham and Mozzarella Cheese Sticks wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Imagine biting into a crunchy exterior, only to discover a melty, gooey center that pulls apart like a cheesy dream come true. These delightful bites are perfect for parties, game days, or just when you have a craving for something indulgent. For more inspiration, check out this lunch recipes recipe.
I still remember the first time I made these heavenly Ham and Mozzarella Cheese Sticks for my family. They disappeared faster than I could plate them! Whether it’s a cozy movie night or an impromptu gathering with friends, these cheesy delights are sure to bring smiles and satisfied sighs all around.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Ham and Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for any skill level in the kitchen
- The flavor combination of savory ham and rich mozzarella is simply irresistible
- Their golden-brown appearance is inviting and perfect for impressing guests at any event
- Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or snack, they’re always a crowd-pleaser!
I once served these cheese sticks at a family gathering, and my cousin couldn’t stop raving about them. His face lit up with joy as he took his first bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ham: Choose thinly sliced deli ham for the best flavor and easy rolling.
Mozzarella Cheese: Use fresh mozzarella sticks for that perfect gooey texture when melted.
Eggs: Large eggs work best to help bind everything together.
Bread Crumbs: Seasoned breadcrumbs add an extra crunch; panko works great too!
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for dredging; it helps the egg adhere better.
Cooking Oil: Use vegetable oil for frying those cheese sticks to golden perfection.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Ham and Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
Prepare Your Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last with breadcrumbs. This assembly line will make your life easier.
Roll the Ham and Cheese: Take a slice of ham and place a mozzarella stick at one end. Roll it tightly but gently; think of it as wrapping a present but way tastier!
Dredge in Flour: Once your ham-wrapped cheese stick is ready, coat it in flour first. Shake off any excess flour so it doesn’t form clumps during frying.
Dip in Egg Wash: Next, dip the floured stick into the beaten eggs. Make sure it’s fully covered; this step ensures your breadcrumbs stick like they’re meant to be together forever.
Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll the egg-covered stick in breadcrumbs until fully coated. Press gently to help them adhere well—nobody wants naked cheese sticks!
Fry Until Golden Brown: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry each cheese stick until golden brown on all sides—about 3-4 minutes total—and enjoy the sizzle!
Now that you’ve got your Ham and Mozzarella Cheese Sticks prepared, you can serve them hot with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. The anticipation builds as those gooey cheese strings stretch out when you take that first bite!
Content
Tip: Use fresh mozzarella for creaminess. Fresh mozzarella gives an unbeatable texture and taste that melts beautifully. I learned this when my first batch turned out rubbery, using pre-grated cheese.
Tip: Don’t overfill the sticks. Leaving some space prevents leaks while frying, ensuring they hold together. I once ended up with a cheesy explosion, which was less than ideal.
Tip: Let them cool slightly before serving. Cooling enhances the flavor and makes them easier to handle. My friend once burned her tongue devouring one too quickly; lesson learned!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly crispy Ham and Mozzarella Cheese Sticks, start by prepping your ingredients. Assemble everything first, then dip in egg wash, coat in breadcrumbs, and fry until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ham with turkey or add spices like garlic powder or Italian herbs for added flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cheese sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake them at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness without sacrificing flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to avoid soggy sticks
- Also, use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunchiness!
- Lastly, serve these cheese sticks with marinara sauce for a delightful dip experience
Sometimes, I remember the first time I made Ham and Mozzarella Cheese Sticks; my family devoured them in minutes! Their laughter echoed through the kitchen as they fought over the last piece.
FAQ
What can I use instead of ham?
You can substitute turkey or chicken for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
Can I bake these cheese sticks instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for around 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
How can I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
Ham and Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
Indulge in the crispy, cheesy goodness of Ham and Mozzarella Cheese Sticks! These delectable treats feature a crunchy exterior that gives way to a melty mozzarella center, making them an irresistible snack perfect for game days or cozy gatherings. Quick and easy to prepare, they are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Pair with marinara sauce for a delightful dipping experience!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 slices thinly sliced deli ham
- 6 mozzarella sticks
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and another with breadcrumbs.
- Take a slice of ham, place a mozzarella stick at one end, and roll it tightly.
- Dredge the ham-wrapped mozzarella in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip in the egg wash until fully coated.
- Roll in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat and fry until golden brown on all sides (about 3-4 minutes).
- Serve hot with marinara sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheese stick (50g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Use fresh mozzarella for optimal melting. For variations, substitute ham with turkey or add spices like garlic powder. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven at 350°F.
