Name: Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks: The Ultimate Guide to Deliciousness
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 32 mozzarella sticks
Ingredients: 1 package (16 ounces) mozzarella cheese sticks, cut in half; 1/2 pound thinly sliced ham, cut into strips; 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pizza dough; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, for dusting; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg, beaten; 2 tablespoons water; Marinara sauce, for serving

Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks: Prepare to experience a flavor explosion that will redefine your appetizer game! Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, crispy exterior, giving way to a molten core of gooey mozzarella, savory ham, and a hint of cheesy goodness. These aren't your average mozzarella sticks; they're a sophisticated, yet incredibly fun, twist on a classic comfort food.

While the exact origins of mozzarella sticks are debated, their popularity soared in the latter half of the 20th century, becoming a staple in American restaurants and bars. This version, however, elevates the experience by incorporating the timeless pairing of ham and cheese. Think of it as a deconstructed cordon bleu, reimagined for easy snacking!

What makes these Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks so irresistible? It's the perfect harmony of textures and tastes. The satisfying crunch of the breading, the stretchy, melty mozzarella, and the salty, savory ham create a symphony in your mouth. They're incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making them ideal for quick weeknight snacks, game day gatherings, or even a fun appetizer for your next dinner party. Trust me, once you try these, you'll never look at mozzarella sticks the same way again!

Ingredients:

1 package (16 ounces) mozzarella cheese sticks, cut in half
1/2 pound thinly sliced ham, cut into strips
1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pizza dough
1/4 cup all-purpose flour, for dusting
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, beaten
2 tablespoons water
Marinara sauce, for serving

Preparing the Ham and Cheese Filling:

Okay, let's get started! First, we need to prep our ham and cheese. This step is super easy, but it's important to get it right so the mozzarella sticks are packed with flavor.

Slice the Mozzarella Sticks: Take your package of mozzarella cheese sticks and carefully cut each one in half. This makes them the perfect size for wrapping in the pizza dough. I like to use a sharp knife to get a clean cut.
Prepare the Ham Strips: Grab your thinly sliced ham and cut it into strips that are about the same length as your halved mozzarella sticks. You don't want them too thick, or they'll be hard to wrap. Aim for strips that are about 1/2 inch wide.

Preparing the Pizza Dough:

Now, let's tackle the pizza dough. This is where the magic happens! We'll be rolling it out and cutting it into strips to wrap around our ham and cheese.

Dust Your Work Surface: Sprinkle a generous amount of all-purpose flour onto your clean work surface. This will prevent the pizza dough from sticking and make it easier to roll out.
Roll Out the Pizza Dough: Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto the floured surface. Use a rolling pin to roll it out into a large rectangle, about 12x16 inches. You want it to be thin enough to wrap easily, but not so thin that it tears.
Cut the Dough into Strips: Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into strips that are about 1 inch wide. These strips will be used to wrap around the ham and cheese mozzarella sticks.

Assembling the Mozzarella Sticks:

This is the fun part! We're going to wrap the ham and cheese around the mozzarella sticks, creating those delicious little bundles of joy.

Wrap the Ham Around the Cheese: Take one halved mozzarella stick and wrap a few strips of ham around it, covering as much of the cheese as possible. Don't worry if it's not perfect; it will all melt together in the oven.
Wrap with Pizza Dough: Take one strip of pizza dough and wrap it around the ham-covered mozzarella stick, starting at one end and overlapping slightly as you go. Make sure the dough is sealed tightly to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking. Pinch the ends of the dough to seal them completely.
Repeat: Repeat steps 1 and 2 with the remaining mozzarella sticks, ham, and pizza dough strips.

Seasoning and Preparing for Baking:

Before we pop these bad boys in the oven, we need to give them a little extra flavor and ensure they get that golden-brown, crispy crust we all crave.

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the mozzarella sticks from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Arrange the Mozzarella Sticks: Place the assembled mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and water. This will create a lovely golden-brown crust.
Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the mozzarella sticks with the egg wash. Make sure to get all the nooks and crannies for even browning.
Season the Mozzarella Sticks: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Drizzle this mixture over the mozzarella sticks. This adds a ton of flavor and helps them crisp up nicely.

Baking the Mozzarella Sticks:

Almost there! Now it's time to bake these cheesy delights to perfection.

Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the mozzarella sticks are golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Cool Slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the mozzarella sticks cool for a few minutes before serving. This will prevent you from burning your mouth on the molten cheese!

Serving:

Finally, the moment we've all been waiting for! It's time to serve these delicious Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite.

Serve with Marinara Sauce: Serve the warm mozzarella sticks with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. You can also use other dipping sauces like ranch dressing, pesto, or even a spicy aioli.
Enjoy Immediately: These mozzarella sticks are best enjoyed immediately while they're still warm and gooey. They're perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal.

Tips and Variations:

Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Provolone, cheddar, or even pepper jack would be delicious alternatives to mozzarella.
Meat Variations: Instead of ham, try using pepperoni, salami, or even cooked bacon.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg wash for a little extra heat.
Air Fryer Option: You can also cook these in an air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the mozzarella sticks ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake them. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Storage Instructions:

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer for the best results. Microwaving them can make them a bit soggy.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving (2-3 mozzarella sticks)
Fat: 15-20 grams
Protein: 15-20 grams
Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams

Enjoy your homemade Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks! I hope you love them as much as I do!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks are more than just a snack; they're a flavor explosion waiting to happen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for so many reasons. First, the combination of salty ham, creamy mozzarella, and that satisfying crunch is simply irresistible. It's the perfect balance of textures and tastes that will have you reaching for more. Second, it's incredibly easy and quick to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or even a fun activity to do with the kids. Forget ordering takeout; you can whip up a batch of these in less time! Finally, and perhaps most importantly, it's a crowd-pleaser. I've yet to meet someone who doesn't love a good mozzarella stick, and the addition of ham elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness. But the fun doesn't stop there! Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions and variations. For dipping, I personally love a classic marinara sauce, but ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo would be fantastic. Think about what flavors complement ham and cheese, and let your imagination run wild! Looking for some variations? Try adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor. You could also experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or pepper jack, for a spicier kick. If you're feeling adventurous, consider wrapping the mozzarella sticks in puff pastry instead of breadcrumbs for an even more decadent treat. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the ham and add some finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. The possibilities are endless! These Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks are also incredibly versatile. Serve them as an appetizer at your next party, pack them in your kids' lunchboxes (they're great cold!), or enjoy them as a satisfying snack while watching your favorite movie. They're perfect for game day, family gatherings, or even a simple weeknight dinner. I often make a big batch on the weekend and reheat them throughout the week for a quick and easy snack. I'm confident that you'll love this recipe as much as I do. It's simple, delicious, and endlessly customizable. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven (or fire up your air fryer!), and get ready to experience the joy of homemade Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you've made them, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What dipping sauce did you choose? What did your family and friends think? Please share your photos and comments in the section below. Your feedback is invaluable, and I can't wait to see your creations! Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, hammy bite! I hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your household. Don't forget to share this recipe with your friends and family so they can enjoy these delicious treats too!