Ham and Cheese Sticks (Print Version)
Crispy breaded sticks stuffed with ham and mozzarella, fried until golden and served with your favorite dipping sauce.
# What You Need:
→ Main Ingredients
01 - 12 slices cooked ham, thinly sliced
02 - 12 sticks mozzarella cheese (3 x 1 x 1 inches each or string cheese)
03 - 12 slices sandwich bread, crusts removed
→ Egg Wash & Coating
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 2 tablespoons milk
06 - 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
07 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ For Frying
11 - Vegetable oil for deep frying
# Directions:
01 - Using a rolling pin, flatten each slice of sandwich bread until thin and pliable.
02 - Place a slice of ham evenly on each flattened bread slice, then lay a mozzarella stick along one edge.
03 - Roll up each bread slice tightly, enclosing the cheese in the ham and bread to form a compact cylinder.
04 - In a shallow bowl, beat eggs with milk until well combined.
05 - In a separate shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, and salt.
06 - Dip each roll first in the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
07 - Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F.
08 - Fry the sticks in batches for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
09 - Let cool for 2 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- They come together in just 30 minutes using ingredients you probably already have in your fridge
- The crunch of the breadcrumb coating gives way to gooey melted cheese and savory ham in every bite
02 -
- Tight rolling is crucial because loose seams let cheese escape into the hot oil during frying
- Do not overcrowd the pan or the oil temperature drops and the sticks become greasy
03 -
- Chill the rolled sticks for 15 minutes before coating to help them hold their shape better
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of plain ones for extra crunch and lighter texture