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Air Fryer Ham Cheese Sticks

Air Fryer Ham Cheese Sticks
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These Air Fryer Ham Cheese Sticks are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and bursting with smoky, cheesy flavor. Ready in under 15 minutes with minimal ingredients, they make a perfect quick snack or appetizer. Air frying ensures a crunchy exterior with less oil for a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Sliced ham (deli or smoked) – enough to wrap cheese sticks
  • Cheese sticks (mozzarella preferred, or cheddar/pepper jack) – chilled
  • All-purpose flour – about ½ cup for coating
  • Eggs – 2 large, beaten
  • Breadcrumbs (panko recommended) – about 1 cup, seasoned if desired

Optional Spices & Add-Ins

  • Paprika – 1 tsp
  • Garlic powder – ½ tsp
  • Italian seasoning or dried herbs – 1 tsp

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather sliced ham and chilled cheese sticks. Keeping cheese cold prevents melting during cooking.
  2. Wrap the Cheese: Securely wrap each cheese stick with a slice of ham, covering it completely to avoid cheese leaks.
  3. Set Up Breading Stations: Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and seasoned breadcrumbs in a third bowl for dredging.
  4. Bread the Ham Cheese Sticks: Coat each ham-wrapped cheese stick first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally press into breadcrumbs ensuring an even coating.
  5. Air Fry to Perfection: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Place sticks in a single layer with space between. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Notes

  • Keep cheese sticks chilled before wrapping to prevent early melting.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to maintain airflow and even crisping.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  • For crunchier sticks, double dip in egg and breadcrumbs before air frying.
  • Check sticks around 6 minutes to avoid overcooking or burnt breadcrumbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, ham cheese sticks, crispy snack, appetizer, easy recipe, quick snack, cheesy bites, gluten free option

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/air-fryer-ham-cheese-sticks/