Baked Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll each slice of bread flat using a rolling pin to make it easy to wrap.
  3. Lay one slice of ham and one mozzarella stick on the edge of each bread slice, then roll tightly and press gently to seal.
  4. Brush each roll with melted butter, then sprinkle lightly with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
  5. Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese just starts to melt through the edges.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Variations

  • Spicy version: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a slice of jalapeño inside each roll for a little heat.
  • Cheese swap: Try cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for different flavors.
  • Sweet and savory: Add a thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam inside before rolling for a gourmet twist.
  • Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free sandwich bread to make the recipe suitable for all guests.

Tips

  • For extra crispiness, toast the bread rolls in a skillet for 1–2 minutes per side before baking. This step enhances the texture and gives a deep golden crust.
  • Make sure to roll the bread tightly so the cheese doesn’t ooze out while baking.
  • These rolls taste best when served immediately, but you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crunch.
  • Pair them with a warm marinara or creamy garlic dip for the ultimate experience.