Description
These Crispy Baked Ham Cheese Sticks offer a perfect balance of salty, savory, and crunchy flavors without the guilt of deep frying. Using a double-dredge technique with smoked ham and sharp cheddar, they bake up golden and shatter-crisp in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 8–10 slices smoked ham (thick-cut preferred)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated into thick shreds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, whisked with a splash of milk or water
- 1 cup plain panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
- Grate the cheddar cheese using the large holes of a box grater.
- Lay a slice of ham on a cutting board and place a generous amount of shredded cheese in the center, leaving an inch of space on all sides.
- Roll the ham tightly around the cheese to form a log. Repeat with remaining slices.
- Cut each roll in half crosswise to create 16-20 individual sticks. Place them cut-side down on a plate.
- Dredge each stick in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, then press firmly into the panko mixture to coat.
- Place sticks on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Lightly spray the tops of the sticks with cooking spray.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating pans halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 2 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Notes
Use a double-dredge technique (flour, egg, panko, egg, panko) for extra crunch if desired, though the single dredge described is sufficient. Ensure cheese is grated into thick shreds, not fine dust, to prevent clumping. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper air circulation and crispiness. For best results, serve immediately. Leftovers can be reheated in an air fryer or toaster oven to restore crunch.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1-2 sticks per servi
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 5
Keywords: crispy baked ham cheese sticks, easy appetizer, game day food, baked cheese sticks, smoked ham recipe, panko breadcrumbs, party snacks