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Fried Ham & Cheese Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 71 reviews
  • Author: lilan
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

Crispy and cheesy Fried Ham & Cheese Mozzarella Sticks featuring gooey mozzarella wrapped in savory deli ham, coated in a double layer of Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs, then fried to golden perfection. Served with a tangy mayo-mustard dip, this appetizer is a perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Coating and Cheese Sticks

  • 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 1/2 oz Parmesan, finely grated (about 1 1/4 cups)
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 12 mozzarella cheese sticks
  • 12 thin slices deli ham
  • 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
  • Flaky sea salt (for finishing)

Dipping Sauce

  • 6 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Coating Bowls: Pour the flour into a shallow bowl large enough to fit a mozzarella stick. In a separate shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until fully blended. In a third shallow bowl, combine the finely grated Parmesan cheese with the panko breadcrumbs, tossing them together to blend.
  2. Wrap and Coat the Mozzarella Sticks: Wrap each mozzarella cheese stick with one slice of deli ham; it is fine if the ends of the mozzarella are exposed. Place the wrapped sticks on a plate or a baking sheet. Dredge each ham-wrapped stick in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the whisked eggs, letting the excess drip off, then roll it in the Parmesan-panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Dip the coated stick again into the egg bowl, then back into the Parmesan-panko mixture to create a double layer of breadcrumbs. Repeat this process with all remaining sticks.
  3. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Pour the vegetable oil into a large, heavy, high-sided skillet fitted with a deep-fry thermometer. Heat the oil over medium-high until the temperature reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches, turning occasionally with tongs, until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3 minutes per batch. Use a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to drain and place the fried sticks, then immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt to enhance flavor.
  4. Prepare the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth and well combined.
  5. Serve: Transfer the fried ham and cheese mozzarella sticks to a serving platter and place the prepared dipping sauce alongside. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Ensure oil temperature stays around 350°F for optimal frying and to prevent oil absorption.
  • Double coating in Parmesan-panko mixture ensures extra crispy crust.
  • These sticks are best enjoyed fresh and hot to keep the mozzarella gooey.
  • Use thinly sliced deli ham for easy wrapping and even cooking.
  • Leftovers can be reheated in an air fryer or oven to retain crispiness, although freshly fried is preferred.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: fried mozzarella sticks, ham and cheese appetizer, crispy cheese sticks, panko breadcrumb coating, mozzarella snacks, party appetizer

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Find it online: https://cooklilan.com/fried-ham-and-cheese-mozzarella-sticks-recipe/