Crispy Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Ham and Cheese

Craving a savory snack that’s quick, crowd-pleasing, and utterly irresistible? Look no further than these Baked Ham Cheese Mozzarella Sticks! Picture this: golden, crispy bites with gooey melted cheese in every mouthwatering nibble. Forget the messy frying—these sticks are the perfect answer to your snack-time prayers.

I remember whipping up a batch of these delectable treats with my little one on a chilly Sunday afternoon, and they’ve been a hit ever since. Whether it’s a holiday game day or a cozy night in, these sticks never fail to steal the show. The best part? That magical moment when they emerge from the oven, perfectly crisp on the edges, ready to be devoured. My daughter even dubbed them “pizza sticks” after her first taste, and now they’re a weekend staple in our household.

For a fun twist, try swapping the ham for smoked turkey or roast beef, or experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for a bit of spice. Serve these crowd-pleasers with an array of dipping sauces—think spicy ketchup, garlic aioli, or classic pizza sauce—for an extra flavor kick. So, gather your loved ones, pop these sticks in the oven, and get ready to savor every stretchy, cheesy bite!

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy savory snack for a crowd or cozy night in
• No frying mess, baked to golden crisp perfection
• Versatile – can be a holiday game day favorite, party appetizer, or family dinner option
• Can be customized with different deli meats and cheese varieties

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Ham and Cheese Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for satisfying savory snack cravings or to whip up for a cozy night in without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Irresistible finger food that’s a hit with a group or to serve at parties, game nights, or family gatherings.
• No-Fry, Less Mess: Enjoy the golden and crisp texture without the hassle and mess of deep-frying, making it a convenient and healthier option.
• Cheese Pull Perfection: Experience the joy of melty mozzarella cheese stretch in every bite, making it a delightful treat for cheese lovers.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with different deli meats like turkey or roast beef, and various cheese options like part skim mozzarella or spicy pepper jack to suit personal preferences.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare in advance, refrigerate leftovers, or freeze for later, making it a versatile option for meal prep or quick snacks.
• Dipping Fun: Pair with a variety of sauces like spicy ketchup, garlic aioli, or classic pizza sauce for a flavor-packed experience.
• Seasonal Twist: Perfect for any time of year, whether cozying up in winter, refreshing with basil in spring, or pairing with a spicy fruit salsa in summer.
• Sharing Favorite: A recipe that garners compliments and requests wherever it goes, making it a go-to dish for gatherings and parties.

Ingredients for Crispy Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Ham and Cheese

Main Components

• 12 slices honey ham, thinly sliced
• 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
• 12 egg roll wrappers, 7 inches each

For Brushing and Seasoning

• Olive oil, for brushing
• Garlic salt, to taste

Pro Tips for Crispy Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Ham and Cheese

To make the Baked Ham Cheese Mozzarella Sticks, ensure the egg roll wrappers are tightly sealed to prevent cheese from oozing out while baking. Placing them seam-side down on the baking sheet can also help with this. For a crispy texture, brush the sticks with a bit more olive oil before baking and make sure to bake until golden brown, turning them halfway through the cooking time.

Feel free to customize this recipe by using different deli meats like smoked turkey slices or roast beef. You can also experiment with different types of cheese such as part skim mozzarella or spicy pepper jack for a unique twist. When serving, offer a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli to complement the flavors. Remember, these sticks are best enjoyed warm, so assemble them in advance and bake when ready to serve for a perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion.

How to Make Crispy Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Ham and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Place parchment paper on a baking sheet to prevent the food from sticking.

Step 3: Assemble the Mozzarella Sticks

Place an egg roll wrapper in a diamond shape. Add a slice of honey ham, then a mozzarella stick. Fold sides over cheese and roll tightly into a cylinder. Arrange seam-side down on baking sheet and repeat for remaining pieces.

Step 4: Brush and Season

Lightly brush each rolled stick with olive oil and evenly sprinkle with garlic salt.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the sticks in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary.

Step 6: Finish Baking

Take the sticks out of the oven, flip them over, and bake for another 4 to 5 minutes until both sides are browned.

Step 7: Serve

Enjoy the baked mozzarella sticks warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Storage Tips

After preparing and enjoying the Baked Ham Cheese Mozzarella Sticks, it’s essential to store any leftovers properly to maintain their crispiness and flavor. Refrigerate the remaining sticks in an airtight container to keep them fresh. When reheating, avoid using the microwave as it can make the wrappers too soft. Instead, reheat the sticks in the oven to help them retain their crisp texture.

If you have extra sticks that you’d like to freeze for future enjoyment, make sure they have cooled completely before placing them in the freezer. Freeze the sticks in a single layer to prevent them from sticking together. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the frozen sticks directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about ten minutes.

To customize this recipe, feel free to experiment with different deli meats like smoked turkey slices or roast beef. Additionally, you can try using alternative cheeses such as part-skim mozzarella or spicy pepper jack for a unique twist on the classic dish. Consider serving the sticks with a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli to enhance the flavors and add a fun element to your meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different deli meat, such as turkey or roast beef, feel free to substitute it for the honey ham in this recipe. The preparation steps remain the same, ensuring you can still enjoy the delicious flavor and texture of these Baked Ham Cheese Mozzarella Sticks with your preferred meat choice.

When it comes to sauces, marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli can all be excellent choices to complement the flavors of these mozzarella sticks. Try different sauces to find your favorite pairing and enhance the overall snack experience.

For a crispy texture, you can brush the sticks with a bit more olive oil before baking and make sure to bake them until golden brown, turning them halfway through the baking process. This will help achieve that perfect crispiness that everyone loves in these savory snacks.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try presenting these Baked Ham Cheese Mozzarella Sticks on a wooden board with a variety of dipping sauces arranged in small bowls around them. This creates a fun and interactive snack platter for guests to enjoy at parties or game nights. Additionally, you can sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, over the sticks before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

To elevate the presentation further, serve these mozzarella sticks on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with balsamic glaze for a contrast in flavors and textures. The combination of the warm, cheesy sticks with the crisp greens and tangy balsamic creates a delightful appetizer or light meal option that is sure to impress your family and friends.

FAQs for Crispy Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Ham and Cheese

Can I use a different type of deli meat instead of honey ham?

Yes, turkey or roast beef can substitute for ham to suit your preference without changing preparation steps.

What are some popular dipping sauce options for these Baked Ham Cheese Mozzarella Sticks?

Marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli are popular options for complementing the flavors.

How can I achieve a crispy texture for the Mozzarella Sticks?

Brush with a bit more olive oil and bake until golden brown, turning halfway, for a crispy texture.

Can I prepare these sticks in advance and bake them later?

They’re best served warm, but you can assemble them in advance and bake when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a delicious snack, these Baked Ham Cheese Mozzarella Sticks are sure to be a hit every time. The combination of gooey cheese, savory ham, and crispy wrappers is simply irresistible.

So next time you’re craving a savory treat, remember these Baked Ham Cheese Mozzarella Sticks. They are easy to make, versatile, and loved by all. Don’t be surprised if they become a staple at your gatherings and cozy nights in. Enjoy the process of making them and the joy they bring to all who indulge in these tasty treats!