These Ham and Cheese Sticks are a tasty treat! Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, they are perfect for snacking or appetizers. Plus, who can resist ham and cheese?
Making these is so easy, I whip them up whenever guests come over. You just roll the ham and cheese in dough, bake, and enjoy! They’re always a hit—everyone loves them! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ham: You can use any type of ham, but I like using thinly sliced deli ham for ease. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey ham is a great substitute.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic for its meltiness, but cheddar adds a tasty kick. Feel free to mix them or swap them with pepper jack for some spice.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a crunchier texture. If you can’t find it, regular breadcrumbs work too, but they won’t be quite as crispy. You could also use crushed crackers!
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but you could use whole wheat flour for a heartier option. For gluten-free, try almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
Eggs: If you’re vegan or allergic, use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) or a store-bought egg replacer.
How Do I Get My Sticks Extra Crunchy?
To achieve that perfect crunch, follow these breading steps closely. The layering of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs is key. The flour creates a dry surface for the egg to stick and the egg is like glue for the breadcrumbs.
- Make sure you coat the ham and cheese roll evenly with flour and shake off the excess.
- Fully dip in the beaten eggs, ensuring all sides are covered.
- When rolling in breadcrumbs, press gently but firmly for good adherence. A second dip in egg and breadcrumbs can enhance crunchiness.
After breading, let them rest for 10 minutes before frying. This helps the coating stick better while cooking. Happy frying!
Ham and Cheese Sticks Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ham and Cheese Sticks:
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 sticks of cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Mustard or mayonnaise for dipping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and about 10 minutes for frying. In total, you’ll spend approximately 30 minutes from start to finish to enjoy these crispy Ham and Cheese Sticks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheese Sticks:
Start by taking one slice of ham and place a cheese stick at one end. Carefully roll the ham tightly around the cheese stick, ensuring the cheese is nicely wrapped. Repeat this process for all of your ham slices and cheese sticks. Set them aside once done!
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
Next, you will need to create a breading station. Grab three separate bowls: put the all-purpose flour in the first bowl, crack the two large eggs into the second bowl and beat them well. In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper together until well combined. This will be your crunchy coating!
3. Bread the Ham and Cheese Rolls:
Now it’s time to bread your ham and cheese rolls! Take each rolled ham and cheese stick and first coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess flour. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully covered. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing down so the crumbs stick well to the rolls. Set each one aside on a plate when finished.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep frying pan or pot, add enough vegetable oil so that it will cover the sticks while frying. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You can test if it’s ready by dropping a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil—if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
5. Fry the Sticks:
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded ham and cheese sticks to the oil in batches. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Make sure to turn them occasionally for even cooking. Be cautious, as the oil can be hot!
6. Drain and Serve:
After frying, use a slotted spoon to remove the sticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve these warm delicious sticks with mustard or mayonnaise for dipping. Enjoy your delightful Ham and Cheese Sticks!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar are great choices, you could also try pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a rich flavor. Just make sure the cheese is firm enough to hold its shape while frying!
How Can I Make These Sticks Healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten them up, consider baking instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded sticks on a lined baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking oil and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Can I Prepare These Sticks Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the ham and cheese rolls and bread them, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before frying. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before frying for even cooking!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover ham and cheese sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain their crispiness, rather than using the microwave which might make them soggy.
