Print

Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks: The Ultimate Guide

Print Recipe

Crispy, golden-brown mozzarella sticks wrapped in savory ham, breaded, and fried to perfection. A fun and delicious appetizer or snack!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ham-Wrapped Sticks: Wrap each mozzarella stick half tightly with a slice (or more, as needed) of ham, ensuring the ends are well-covered.
  2. Chill: Place the wrapped sticks on a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Set Up Breading Station: Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in a second, and a mixture of bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and oregano in a third.
  4. Breading: Remove mozzarella sticks from the refrigerator. Dredge each stick in flour, then dip in egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with the bread crumb mixture. For a crispier crust, repeat the egg wash and bread crumb steps (double breading).
  5. Chill Again: Place the breaded mozzarella sticks back in the refrigerator for another 15-20 minutes.
  6. Heat Oil: Pour 2-3 inches of vegetable oil into a deep pot or Dutch oven. Heat over medium-high heat to 350-375°F (175-190°C).
  7. Fry: Carefully place a few breaded mozzarella sticks into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Drain: Remove the fried mozzarella sticks with a slotted spoon or tongs and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain off excess oil.
  9. Serve: Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping, if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

  • Chilling the mozzarella sticks before breading and frying is crucial to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.
  • Maintain the correct oil temperature for crispy results. Overcrowding the pot will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy mozzarella sticks.
  • Double breading is recommended for an extra crispy crust and to help prevent cheese leakage.
  • Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Find it online: https://mmmflavors.com/ham-and-cheese-mozzarella-sticks/