Pin it
These baked ham mozzarella sticks are my go-to when I need a warm cheesy snack that both kids and grown-ups love. Gooey string cheese gets wrapped in honey ham and egg roll wrappers then crisped in the oven for a lighter but still deeply satisfying take on the classic. No fryer needed—your kitchen will stay mess free and your snack craving will thank you.
Ingredients
- Egg roll wrappers: A must for the signature crispiness look for wrappers that are fresh not dried out for easy rolling
- Honey ham: Thin slices wrap easily and add a touch of sweetness choose good quality ham with no added fillers for best flavor
- Mozzarella string cheese: This is all about that gooey middle always pick fresh sticks that are still plump and moist for proper melt
- Olive oil: Gives you that beautiful golden finish when brushed on top use extra virgin for a richer taste
- Garlic salt: Quick seasoning boost look for blends with real garlic instead of artificial flavors
- Marinara sauce: Nice for dipping choose one with bright tomato flavor or make your own if you have time
- Ranch dressing: Classic American pairing select a thicker style dressing so it clings to the hot mozzarella
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare to Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze
- Assemble and Fill:
- Lay one egg roll wrapper diagonally on a flat surface carefully lay one slice of ham across the center then place a string cheese stick right on top of the ham
- Roll Them Up:
- Fold the side corners of the wrapper in over the filling press down to keep tight then roll up from the bottom all the way over the cheese using your fingers to keep it snug as you go and make sure the wrapper ends are sealed well with a dab of water to keep everything closed
- Repeat and Season:
- Continue filling and rolling all twelve sticks then brush each one generously with olive oil ensuring the surface is lightly coated and sprinkle garlic salt over the tops for extra flavor
- Bake to Perfection:
- Arrange the filled sticks seam side down on the baking sheet bake for twelve to fifteen minutes then flip them over and bake another four to five minutes just until the wrappers are deeply golden and crisp all over
- Serve and Dip:
- Immediately move to a plate and let cool briefly serve right away with your choice of marinara or ranch for dipping
Pin it
This recipe always reminds me of my younger brother who would literally race to the table just to grab the first one off the platter it is still the only way I can make him eat ham with a smile
Storage Tips
Place any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the fridge they will keep well for up to two days Reheat them in the oven or an air fryer for a few minutes to bring the wrapper back to life Microwaving works but will make the outside less crisp
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ham for thinly sliced turkey or chicken breast if you want a milder taste and less salt Like a bit of heat pepper jack or provolone are fun cheese swaps You can also sneak in a thin spread of pesto or Dijon inside the wrapper for an herby or tangy kick
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot on a platter with little bowls of warm marinara ranch or a honey mustard sauce For a more filling meal tuck these inside a lunchbox with crunchy cucumbers and apple slices Pair with tomato soup or a big salad for a light dinner
A Little History
Mozzarella sticks have always been party food royalty but this baked twist probably takes inspiration from both Italian-American appetizers and the ever popular snack culture in the US Swapping out traditional breadcrumbs for egg roll wrappers ties in a bit of Asian-American influence and also makes for a more foolproof result every time
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do you keep the cheese from leaking out?
Seal the edges of the egg roll wrappers tightly with a bit of water or flour paste to keep the cheese contained during baking.
- → Can I use a different deli meat?
Absolutely! Turkey, roast beef, or chicken make tasty alternatives to ham for varied flavors.
- → How can I make the sticks extra crispy?
After baking, broil the sticks for 1-2 minutes but watch them closely to prevent burning.
- → What cheeses work best besides mozzarella?
Pepper jack, provolone, or cheddar can be delicious substitutes for mozzarella in this snack.
- → Are dipping sauces necessary?
Marinara or ranch add extra flavor, but the sticks are tasty enough to serve on their own if you prefer.
- → Can these be prepared in advance?
Assemble ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.