If you’ve ever craved the satisfying crunch and gooey cheese pull of mozzarella sticks but wished they were a bit lighter and easier to make, these Baked Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks are your answer. They deliver all the melty indulgence without the fryer, and with just a few simple ingredients, they come together in under 30 minutes.
These are perfect as a quick weeknight snack, a movie night treat, or a party appetizer that disappears faster than you can make them.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Quick & Easy – Only four main ingredients and minimal prep.
✅ Healthier Than Fried – Crisp and golden in the oven without excess oil.
✅ Kid & Adult Approved – Great for picky eaters, easy to customize.
✅ Meal-Prep Friendly – Freeze before or after baking for easy reheats.
I first made these on a busy weeknight with leftover ham, mozzarella sticks, and eggroll wrappers I had in the fridge. The result was so good my family now requests them for nearly every game night.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Eggroll Wrappers – Fresh and flexible ones work best; they crisp beautifully in the oven without cracking.
Thinly Sliced Honey Ham – Adds savory depth and a touch of sweetness; go for a quality deli brand.
Mozzarella Sticks or String Cheese – Whole milk mozzarella melts into a perfectly creamy pull.
Olive Oil – Lightly brushed on top for that golden finish.
Garlic Salt – A savory punch; use one with real dehydrated garlic for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Method
- Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Sticks
Place an eggroll wrapper on your work surface like a diamond (one corner facing you).
Lay a slice of ham across the center.
Place a mozzarella stick in the middle.
Fold the left and right corners over the cheese, then roll the wrapper tightly away from you into a neat cylinder.
Pro Tip: Keep the roll snug but don’t stretch the wrapper to the point of tearing.
- Brush & Season
Place each roll seam-side down on the baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic salt.
- First Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, until the tops are golden brown.
- Flip & Finish
Turn each stick with tongs, bake for another 4–5 minutes until all sides are crisp.
- Cool & Serve
Let cool for 1 minute (if you can wait!) and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving Ideas
Classic Marinara – Always a hit.
Ranch Dressing – For a creamy, tangy contrast.
Honey Mustard – Sweet and sharp.
Creamy Pesto – Fresh, herbal twist.
Pair them with a fresh salad or fruit for a simple lunch.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Fridge: Cool completely, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F for about 8 minutes.
Freezer (Unbaked): Assemble, freeze on a tray, then store in freezer bags. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes to cook time.
Freezer (Baked): Cool fully, freeze, and reheat in a toaster oven until crisp.
Ingredient Swaps
No Ham? Try turkey, prosciutto, or spicy salami.
Vegetarian? Use roasted bell peppers or zucchini slices with Italian herbs.
Different Cheese? Cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
Cultural Note
Mozzarella sticks are a staple in American diners and sports bars, usually deep-fried. This baked version offers the same familiar flavors with a modern, healthier twist — plus the clever use of eggroll wrappers makes them extra crunchy without the mess.
Pro Tips for Success
Let wrappers come to room temp to avoid tearing.
Don’t overfill; excess cheese may ooze out.
Add a sprinkle of Parmesan before baking for extra flavor and crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use a different cheese?
Yes — cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack all work well.
→ Do I have to use premade eggroll wrappers?
They save time, but you can use phyllo dough or homemade wrappers if you prefer.
→ How do I prevent them from bursting?
Roll tightly, seal edges well, and bake seam-side down.
→ What’s the best dipping sauce?
Marinara is classic, but ranch, honey mustard, or garlic aioli are all great.
→ Can I prep these ahead?
Yes — assemble the day before, refrigerate, and bake fresh for best crispiness.