Let me tell you, baked ham and cheese mozzarella sticks are a total game changer! These little bites of joy are not just easy to whip up, but they’re also perfect for parties, game days, or even a cozy movie night at home. I remember the first time I made them; my friends couldn’t get enough! The combination of salty ham and gooey mozzarella is simply irresistible. Plus, they bake up golden and crispy, making them the ultimate snack. Trust me, once you try these baked ham and cheese mozzarella sticks, you’ll be making them on repeat!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious baked ham and cheese mozzarella sticks:
- 8 slices of ham (thinly sliced works best)
- 8 sticks of mozzarella cheese (string cheese sticks are perfect)
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (for that crispy coating)
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour (for dusting)
- 2 large eggs (beaten for the egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning (for a burst of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip this step!)
How to Prepare Baked Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks
Now, let’s get down to the fun part—making these baked ham and cheese mozzarella sticks! It’s super simple, and I promise you won’t need any fancy skills. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key for getting that perfect golden brown color!
Next, lay out a slice of ham on a clean surface and place a mozzarella stick right in the center. Gently roll the ham around the cheese stick, making sure it’s nice and snug. Repeat this step for all your cheese sticks. You want them well-wrapped so that cheesy goodness stays inside!
Now, let’s set up your breading station. In one bowl, pour in the flour; in another, beat the two eggs. In a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Take each ham and cheese roll, dip it in the flour first, shake off the excess, then dunk it in the egg, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs. This three-step process is what gives them that crispy exterior!
Place your beautifully breaded sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then pop them in the oven for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and the cheese is all melty. Let them cool for a few minutes before diving in. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love Baked Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks
- They’re incredibly quick to make—perfect for those last-minute snack cravings!
- Easy to prepare, even for beginner cooks (trust me, you can do this!).
- Flavorsome and satisfying, with that perfect blend of salty ham and gooey cheese.
- Ideal for parties, game days, or any gathering where tasty bites are a must!
- Versatile enough to pair with your favorite dipping sauces for extra yum.
Tips for Success
Here are my favorite tips to ensure your baked ham and cheese mozzarella sticks turn out perfectly every time! First, make sure your ham slices are thin enough to easily wrap around the cheese. If they’re too thick, they might not hold together well. Also, don’t rush the breading process—make sure to coat them well in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs for that crispy crunch!
Another pro tip? Let them cool slightly after baking; this helps the cheese set a bit and prevents it from oozing out too fast when you take that first bite. And if you want to prep ahead, feel free to freeze the unbaked sticks for a quick snack later on—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from frozen!
Variations of Baked Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up your baked ham and cheese mozzarella sticks! One of my favorites is to use different types of cheese—try pepper jack for a spicy kick or cheddar for a sharper flavor. You could even mix it up with a blend of cheeses for a gooey surprise!
Another idea is to play with the seasonings; add some garlic powder or smoked paprika to the breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor. Want to take it to the next level? Consider adding a slice of jalapeño or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil before rolling them up. The possibilities are endless!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), storing them is super easy. Just place the baked ham and cheese mozzarella sticks in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay good for about 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them before baking! Just wrap each stick tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
When it’s time to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until they’re warm and crispy again. Microwave reheating isn’t recommended, as it can make them a bit soggy. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Nutritional Information
When you indulge in these baked ham and cheese mozzarella sticks, you’re looking at about 150 calories per stick. They pack a decent punch with 11 grams of protein, which is perfect for satisfying those snack cravings. You’ll also find around 8 grams of fat and 10 grams of carbs, making them a delightful treat that won’t completely derail your day. Enjoy with confidence!
FAQ Section
Can I use turkey ham instead of regular ham?
Absolutely! Turkey ham works just as well and is a great option if you’re looking for a lighter alternative.
What dipping sauces pair well with these sticks?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but ranch dressing or honey mustard also make fantastic dips!
Can I bake these mozzarella sticks from frozen?
Yes! Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time, and they’ll come out crispy and delicious.
How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out?
Make sure to wrap the ham tightly around the cheese, and let them cool a bit after baking to help the cheese set.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prep them and store them in the fridge for a day before baking, or freeze them for later use.
Baked Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks: 5 Irresistible Bites
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Baked ham and cheese mozzarella sticks are a savory snack. They are easy to make and perfect for parties or game days.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 sticks of mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lay a slice of ham flat and place a mozzarella stick in the center.
- Roll the ham around the cheese stick.
- Repeat for all cheese sticks.
- Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Dip each ham and cheese roll in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs.
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Use different types of cheese for variety.
- Can be made ahead of time and frozen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stick
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: baked ham and cheese mozzarella sticks
