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Baked Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks

Updated on 3 min read

Quick Description

These Baked Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and packed with savory ham and melty cheese. Oven-baked instead of fried, they’re an easy appetizer or snack that delivers big flavor with minimal effort—perfect for parties, game day, or a fun family treat.

Servings & Timing

Serves: 12 sticks
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Freeze Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes

Ingredients List

  • 12 mozzarella sticks (low-moisture preferred)
  • 12 thin slices deli ham
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (Italian-style preferred)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Wrap the Cheese
    Wrap each mozzarella stick tightly with a slice of ham. Press gently so the ham sticks to the cheese.
  2. Set Up Breading Station
    • Bowl 1: flour
    • Bowl 2: eggs whisked with milk
    • Bowl 3: breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, and pepper
  3. Bread the Sticks
    Roll each ham-wrapped cheese stick in flour, dip into egg, then coat fully in breadcrumbs.
    For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step.
  4. Freeze
    Place breaded sticks on a tray and freeze for 20 minutes (this prevents cheese leakage).
  5. Bake
    Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
    Place sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and lightly spray with oil.
    Bake for 15–18 minutes, turning once, until golden and crispy.
  6. Serve
    Let cool for 2–3 minutes before serving.

Nutrition (per stick – approximate)

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbs: 12g
  • Fat: 10g

Benefits

  • Baked, Not Fried: Lighter than traditional mozzarella sticks
  • High-Protein Snack: Ham and cheese keep you full
  • Beginner-Friendly: Simple steps, no deep frying
  • Customizable: Swap meats or cheeses easily

Additional Notes

  • Low-moisture mozzarella melts better and leaks less.
  • Freezing is essential—do not skip this step.
  • Serve immediately for best texture.

Dietary Info

  • Vegetarian: ❌
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour
  • Keto Option: Use almond flour and pork-rind crumbs

Brief Introduction

These baked mozzarella sticks are everything you love about classic cheese sticks—but better. The ham adds savory depth, the coating gets perfectly crisp, and the oven does all the work. No mess, no fryer, just melty goodness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

  • Wrap cheese with ham
  • Bread thoroughly
  • Freeze to hold shape
  • Bake until golden and gooey

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Mozzarella Cheese: Low-moisture melts best
  • Ham: Thin deli slices wrap easily
  • Breadcrumbs: Panko gives extra crunch
  • Cheese Swaps: Provolone or gouda work great

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

Variations:

  • Add Italian seasoning to breadcrumbs
  • Use turkey ham for a lighter option
  • Add parmesan to breadcrumb mix

Serve With:

  • Marinara sauce
  • Honey mustard
  • Ranch or garlic aioli

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate: Up to 3 days
  • Freeze (Unbaked): Up to 2 months
  • Reheat: Oven or air fryer for best crisp

FAQs

Why did my cheese leak out?
They weren’t frozen long enough or coating wasn’t sealed well.

Can I air fry them?
Yes — air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.

Can I prep ahead?
Absolutely. Bread and freeze until ready to bake.

Optional Personal Story

These started as a quick experiment and instantly became a family favorite. Once that first cheesy pull happened, they were officially on repeat.

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