Baked Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks

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Golden, crispy perfection filled with gooey mozzarella and savory ham—this easy appetizer is perfect for every occasion.

Introduction

When it comes to party snacks, few things are as universally loved as cheese sticks. But what if you took the indulgent, cheesy comfort of mozzarella sticks and gave them a savory, protein-rich twist? Enter Baked Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks—a lighter, oven-baked version of a favorite appetizer, infused with deli-style ham and wrapped in a crispy, golden shell.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering, prepping a game-day snack, or just trying to jazz up your afternoon snack game, these ham and cheese rolls offer the best of all worlds: melty cheese, salty ham, crispy wrapper, and an easy prep that won’t keep you in the kitchen for hours.

This recipe is perfect for busy families, picky kids, or anyone who loves finger food that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Plus, it’s oven-baked, so you can skip the oil splatter and still enjoy the satisfying crunch you crave.

Let’s dive into the full recipe, helpful tips, and creative variations to make this snack your new go-to.

Why You’ll Love These Mozzarella Sticks

  • Kid-Approved – Cheesy, handheld, and fun to dip? Instant win.

  • Healthier Alternative – Baked, not fried. Less mess, fewer calories.

  • Quick and Easy – Only a few simple ingredients and under 30 minutes.

  • Customizable – Swap proteins, cheeses, and dipping sauces to suit your cravings.

  • Perfect for Parties – Make ahead, freeze, bake when ready. Ideal for crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients (US Cup Measures)

Here’s everything you need to make 12 baked mozzarella sticks:

  • 12 egg roll wrappers (7-inch square)

  • 12 slices honey ham, thinly sliced

  • 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt

Optional for Serving:

  • Marinara sauce

  • Ranch dressing

  • Honey mustard

  • Garlic aioli

  • BBQ sauce

  • Spicy ketchup or sriracha mayo

How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with non-stick spray.
This step ensures an even cook and helps your rolls crisp up perfectly without sticking.

Step 2: Assemble the Sticks

On a clean surface, lay one egg roll wrapper in a diamond shape (pointed corner facing you).
Place one slice of ham across the center.
Put one mozzarella stick on top of the ham.
Fold the left and right corners inward toward the center.
Roll tightly from the bottom corner up, making sure to seal the edges well to prevent any cheese from oozing out.
Repeat this process for all 12 wrappers.

Pro Tip: Use a small dab of water to seal the final edge of the roll for a tight closure.

Step 3: Brush and Season

Use a pastry brush to lightly coat each roll with olive oil on the top and sides.
Sprinkle garlic salt over the top to add flavor and enhance browning.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 12–15 minutes in your preheated oven until golden brown on one side.
Flip each roll and bake for another 4–5 minutes to evenly crisp all sides.
The result: crispy wrappers, melted cheese, and ham that gets slightly caramelized and savory.

Step 5: Serve and Dip

Serve immediately while warm and gooey.
Pair with your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or garlic aioli.

Prep Time & Cooking Time

Task Time
Prep Time 10 minutes
Baking Time 15–20 minutes
Total Time ~25–30 minutes

Nutrition Information

Per Stick (1 of 12) Amount
Calories ~180 kcal
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 13g
Fat 10g
Fiber 0.5g
Sugar 1g
Sodium 450mg

Note: These numbers are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and substitutions.

Expert Tips for Success

Seal Tightly

Roll your sticks firmly and tuck in the edges. Use water or a flour paste to ensure the wrapper doesn’t come undone during baking.

Crispier Finish

If you want a restaurant-style crunch, pop the sticks under the broiler for 1–2 minutes after baking. Watch carefully—they brown fast.

Make Ahead and Freeze

You can roll and freeze the uncooked sticks. Just place them in a single layer in a zip-top freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the baking time.

Swap It Up

  • Use turkey, roast beef, or chicken slices instead of ham.

  • Try pepper jack, cheddar, or provolone cheese sticks for a different flavor profile.

  • Add a thin smear of mustard, pesto, or hot sauce inside for a flavorful surprise.

Serving Ideas

These baked mozzarella sticks are a versatile appetizer that fits almost any occasion. Here are a few creative serving ideas:

Party Platter

Serve with a variety of sauces for dipping, arranged around the sticks on a tray. Add fresh herbs or cherry tomatoes for color.

Kid-Friendly Lunch

Pair 2–3 sticks with apple slices and carrot sticks for a fun, balanced lunchbox meal.

Game Day Snack

Offer them hot with cold drinks, spicy mustard, and crispy pickles for an adult crowd.

Meal Upgrade

Use them as a side with soup or a grilled sandwich for a gooey, cheesy bonus.

Creative Variations

Buffalo Style

Brush the assembled rolls with buffalo sauce before baking. Serve with ranch or blue cheese.

Italian-Style

Add a thin layer of marinara sauce and sprinkle with oregano and basil inside each wrap.

Spicy Jalapeño

Place a thin strip of pickled jalapeño alongside the mozzarella before rolling for a spicy kick.

Chicken Parm Roll-Ups

Substitute ham with cooked chicken slices, add a little grated Parmesan, and serve with marinara.

Make It a Meal

These mozzarella sticks are more than a snack. Turn them into a meal with:

  • Soup – Tomato basil or creamy broccoli pairs perfectly.

  • Salad – A light Caesar or spinach salad balances the richness.

  • Pasta – Serve with spaghetti for a comfort food combo.

Storage & Reheating

To Store

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To Reheat

  • Oven: 350°F for 5–7 minutes.

  • Air Fryer: 370°F for 4 minutes.

  • Avoid microwaving if possible—it softens the crisp wrapper.

FAQs

Can I use wonton wrappers instead?
You can, but they are smaller. Reduce cheese portions or cut string cheese in half. Cooking time may also be shorter.

Can these be deep-fried?
Yes. Heat oil to 350°F and fry each for about 2 minutes per side. Drain well.

Can I use shredded cheese?
String cheese holds its shape best. Shredded cheese may melt out too quickly and make a mess.

Are these gluten-free?
Not by default. Use gluten-free egg roll wrappers and ensure all ingredients (like ham) are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

If you’re craving something cheesy, crispy, and super satisfying, these Baked Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks check every box. They’re quick to make, simple to customize, and sure to please any crowd—from kids to adults. Perfect for parties, quick lunches, or just because—you’ll find yourself making these again and again.

With only a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made these sooner.

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