Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks: The Ultimate Guide

Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks: Prepare to experience a flavor explosion that will redefine your snacking game! Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, crispy exterior, giving way to a warm, gooey blend of melted mozzarella, savory ham, and a hint of cheesy goodness. These aren’t your average mozzarella sticks; they’re a sophisticated twist on a beloved classic, perfect for game day, after-school treats, or even a fun and easy dinner.

While the exact origins of mozzarella sticks are debated, their popularity soared in the United States during the late 20th century, quickly becoming a staple on restaurant menus and at casual gatherings. This Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks recipe elevates that familiar comfort food by adding a delightful layer of flavor and heartiness. The addition of ham transforms a simple appetizer into a more substantial and satisfying snack.

People adore mozzarella sticks for their irresistible combination of textures and flavors. The crispy, crunchy breading provides a delightful contrast to the soft, stretchy cheese inside. The addition of ham brings a salty, savory element that complements the mild mozzarella perfectly. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make and customize, making them a crowd-pleasing favorite for all ages. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy this classic treat!

Ingredients:

• 1 package (16 ounces) mozzarella cheese sticks, cut in half
• 1/2 pound thinly sliced deli ham
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks:

Alright, let’s get started! First, we need to prepare our mozzarella sticks by wrapping them in delicious ham. This is where the magic begins!

1. Prepare your workstation: Lay out a clean cutting board. This will be your ham-wrapping station. Make sure you have your mozzarella sticks and sliced ham within easy reach.
2. Wrap the mozzarella sticks: Take one mozzarella stick half and a slice of ham. Wrap the ham tightly around the mozzarella stick, overlapping the edges to ensure it’s completely covered. You might need to use more than one slice of ham per stick, depending on the size of your ham slices. The goal is to create a secure ham “jacket” for the cheese.
3. Secure the ends: Make sure the ends of the mozzarella stick are well-covered by the ham. This will help prevent the cheese from oozing out during frying. If necessary, use small pieces of ham to patch up any gaps.
4. Repeat the process: Continue wrapping each mozzarella stick half with ham until all the sticks are wrapped. Try to keep the wrapping consistent for even cooking.
5. Chill the wrapped sticks: Place the wrapped mozzarella sticks on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial because it helps the ham adhere to the cheese and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly during frying. Trust me, you don’t want a cheesy explosion in your hot oil!

Setting Up the Breading Station:

Now that our mozzarella sticks are chilling, let’s get our breading station ready. This is where we’ll create that crispy, golden-brown crust that makes these snacks so irresistible.

1. Prepare the flour: In a shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. This is the first layer of our breading, and it helps the egg adhere to the ham.
2. Prepare the egg wash: In a second shallow dish, whisk the two large eggs until they are well combined. The egg wash will help the bread crumbs stick to the ham and flour.
3. Prepare the bread crumb mixture: In a third shallow dish, combine the Italian seasoned bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. The Parmesan cheese adds a nice salty, nutty flavor, while the garlic powder and oregano give it that classic Italian touch.
4. Arrange the breading station: Set up your breading station in an assembly line fashion: flour, egg wash, bread crumb mixture. This will make the breading process much more efficient.

Breading the Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks:

Time to get our hands a little messy! This is where we transform those ham-wrapped sticks into crispy, cheesy delights.

1. Remove the mozzarella sticks from the refrigerator: Take the chilled ham-wrapped mozzarella sticks out of the refrigerator. Working with cold sticks is key to preventing them from melting too quickly during frying.
2. Dredge in flour: Take one ham-wrapped mozzarella stick and dredge it in the flour, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. Shake off any excess flour. The flour helps the egg wash adhere better.
3. Dip in egg wash: Dip the floured mozzarella stick into the egg wash, ensuring it’s completely coated. Let any excess egg drip off.
4. Coat in bread crumbs: Transfer the egg-washed mozzarella stick to the bread crumb mixture. Use your hands to press the bread crumbs onto the stick, making sure it’s completely covered on all sides. Don’t be shy – really pack those bread crumbs on there!
5. Double breading (optional but recommended): For an extra crispy crust, repeat the breading process: dip the breaded mozzarella stick back into the egg wash and then back into the bread crumb mixture. This double breading will create a thicker, more protective layer that will help prevent the cheese from leaking out during frying.
6. Place on a baking sheet: Place the breaded mozzarella stick on a clean baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Repeat the process: Continue breading all the ham-wrapped mozzarella sticks until they are all coated.
8. Chill again (important!): Once all the mozzarella sticks are breaded, place them back in the refrigerator for another 15-20 minutes. This second chilling step is crucial for helping the breading adhere properly and preventing the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.

Frying the Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks:

Alright, the moment we’ve been waiting for! Let’s get these bad boys fried up to golden-brown perfection.

1. Heat the oil: Pour about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil into a deep pot or Dutch oven. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350-375°F (175-190°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature. Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy crust without burning the bread crumbs.
2. Fry in batches: Carefully place a few breaded mozzarella sticks into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy mozzarella sticks.
3. Fry until golden brown: Fry the mozzarella sticks for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly.
4. Remove and drain: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried mozzarella sticks from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
5. Repeat the process: Continue frying the mozzarella sticks in batches until they are all cooked.

Serving and Enjoying:

Congratulations! You’ve successfully made delicious Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks. Now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor!

1. Serve immediately: These mozzarella sticks are best served immediately while they are still hot and crispy.
2. Serve with marinara sauce (optional): Serve the mozzarella sticks with warm marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy tomato sauce complements the cheesy, savory flavor perfectly.
3. Garnish (optional): Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of elegance.
4. Enjoy! Grab a mozzarella stick, dip it in marinara sauce, and savor the delicious combination of crispy breading, melted cheese, and savory ham. These are perfect for parties, game nights, or just a fun snack!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks are more than just a snack; they’re a flavor explosion waiting to happen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying appetizer, lunch, or even a fun dinner option. The combination of salty ham, gooey mozzarella, and that crispy, golden-brown exterior is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that disappears in minutes, leaving everyone wanting more. But why is this recipe so special? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The slight saltiness of the ham complements the mild, creamy mozzarella beautifully. And that crispy coating? It adds a delightful crunch that elevates the entire experience. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily adapt it to suit your own preferences and dietary needs. Looking for serving suggestions? I love serving these Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks with a variety of dipping sauces. Marinara sauce is a classic choice, of course, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo would be fantastic. For a lighter option, try a simple balsamic glaze or a fresh pesto. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not create your own signature dipping sauce? Want to take these mozzarella sticks to the next level? Consider these variations: * Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a little kick. * Go Italian: Incorporate some Italian seasoning, grated Parmesan cheese, and a touch of garlic powder into the breadcrumbs. * Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ham with sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even some sautéed mushrooms. * Cheese lover’s delight: Experiment with different types of cheese! Provolone, pepper jack, or even a smoked gouda would be delicious additions. * Air Fryer Option: For a healthier twist, try air frying these mozzarella sticks! Simply spray them with cooking oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. The possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. I’m confident that you’ll love the results. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven (or fire up your air fryer!), and get ready to create some culinary magic. I promise you won’t be disappointed. These Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone, from kids to adults. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and what dipping sauces you paired them with. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to continue creating delicious and easy-to-follow recipes. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, hammy, and crispy bite! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to answer them. I can’t wait to hear about your Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks success! Print