Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside—these Ham and Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are the ultimate comfort food that elevates the classic mozzarella stick to new heights. By adding savory ham to the mix, we’re creating a perfect balance of flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Whether you’re hosting game day, planning a family movie night, or just craving something indulgent, these homemade cheese sticks deliver restaurant-quality taste with surprisingly little effort. The combination of stretchy mozzarella and salty ham wrapped in a golden, crunchy coating is simply irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This
- Simple ingredients you likely already have in your refrigerator and pantry
- Perfect balance of crispy exterior and melty, cheesy interior
- Kid-friendly but sophisticated enough for adults to enjoy
- Make-ahead friendly—prepare and freeze for quick snacks anytime
- Versatile as an appetizer, snack, or even part of a main meal
Ingredients
- 12 eggroll wrappers (7-inch size)
- 12 slices honey ham, thinly sliced
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- Olive oil for brushing
- Garlic salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place an eggroll wrapper in a diamond shape on your work surface. Put one slice of ham in the center, then place a mozzarella stick on top of the ham.
- Fold the sides of the wrapper over the cheese, then roll the entire wrapper tightly to create an eggroll shape. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Lightly brush each wrapped stick with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic salt to your taste preference.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, checking after 10 minutes since ovens vary. Look for golden brown color on the tops.
- Remove from oven and carefully turn each stick over. Return to oven for 4-5 more minutes until browned on the bottom side.
- Remove from oven and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce while the cheese is still melty.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 8-10 minutes instead of frying
- Try different cheeses like cheddar sticks or pepper jack for variety
- Substitute prosciutto or turkey for the ham to change the flavor profile
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick
- Make mini versions using cheese cubes for bite-sized party appetizers
- Air fryer method: Cook at 390°F for 6-8 minutes for a less messy alternative
Serving Suggestions
These Ham and Mozzarella Cheese Sticks pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces beyond classic marinara. Try ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for something different. For a complete appetizer spread, serve alongside a fresh green salad or vegetable crudités to balance the richness.
If you’re turning these into a meal, consider serving with a side of tomato soup for a grown-up take on grilled cheese and soup, or alongside a simple pasta dish for a fun Italian-inspired dinner.
Notes
- The double-freezing process is crucial to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking
- Oil temperature is key—too hot and the outside burns before the cheese melts; too cool and they’ll absorb too much oil
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes
- For make-ahead preparation, freeze fully breaded (uncooked) sticks for up to 1 month
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and bread the cheese sticks, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a ziplock bag and store for up to a month. Cook directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.
Why did my cheese leak out during frying?
This usually happens when the sticks aren’t cold enough before frying or if there are gaps in the breading. Make sure to freeze them thoroughly and ensure complete coating with no exposed cheese.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, though panko provides a lighter, crispier texture. If using regular breadcrumbs, you may want to add a tablespoon of grated parmesan for extra flavor.
How do I know when they’re done cooking?
They should be golden brown on the outside and the cheese should be soft and melty inside. If you’re baking, you might see a little cheese starting to bubble at the ends—that’s your cue they’re ready!
[recipe_card]
