Crispy Ham & Cheese Rolls (Fried or Air-Fried)
Golden, cheesy, salty, and crunchy — the ultimate comfort snack!
Yields:
8 rolls (can easily be doubled or tripled for parties)
⏱️ Total Time:
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Prep: 20 minutes
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Cook: 10–15 minutes
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Chill (optional): 15 minutes for cleaner frying
Ingredients:
For the Rolls:
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8 egg roll wrappers (or spring roll wrappers / flour tortillas cut to size)
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8 slices of quality cooked ham (thinly sliced, but not paper-thin)
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8 sticks of mozzarella cheese (or cut from a block into approx. 3-inch logs)
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1 large egg, beaten (to seal edges)
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A sprinkle of black pepper or chili flakes (optional, for flavor punch)
Optional Crust (for extra crunch):
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¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
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2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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Pinch of salt
️ For Cooking:
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Oil for deep-frying (canola, sunflower, or vegetable oil)
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OR oil spray for air-fryer version
Dipping Sauce Ideas:
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Marinara sauce
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Honey mustard
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Spicy ketchup
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Garlic aioli
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Ranch or creamy chipotle
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Work Station:
Set up your ingredients:
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Place wrappers on a clean surface.
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Keep ham, cheese sticks, and a small bowl of beaten egg nearby.
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If using breadcrumbs, combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt in a shallow dish.
2. Assemble Each Roll:
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Lay one wrapper like a diamond (one point facing you).
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Place a slice of ham horizontally near the center.
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Tip: Fold the ham if it’s larger than the wrapper.
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Add a cheese stick on top of the ham.
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Optionally season with a bit of pepper or chili flakes.
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Fold the sides in, then roll up tightly like a burrito.
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Brush the edges with egg to seal.
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(Optional Crunch Upgrade): Dip the entire roll in egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
Repeat until all 8 rolls are assembled.
3. Chill Before Cooking (Recommended):
Place the rolls on a plate and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes.
This firms them up and helps prevent cheese from leaking during cooking.
Cooking Options:
️ Deep-Frying:
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In a deep pan or fryer, heat 1–2 inches of oil to 175–180°C (350–360°F).
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Fry 2–3 rolls at a time, turning occasionally, for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
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Drain on paper towels and keep warm.
️ Air Fryer Method (Healthier):
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Preheat air fryer to 190°C (375°F).
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Lightly spray rolls with cooking oil on all sides.
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Air fry for 6–8 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and golden.
Oven-Baked Option:
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Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
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Place rolls on a lined baking sheet.
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Brush lightly with oil or melted butter.
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Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown, flipping once halfway.
Serving Suggestions:
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Serve immediately while hot, when the cheese is gooey and stretchy.
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Arrange on a platter with assorted dips for variety.
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Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for garnish.
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Serve alongside a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating:
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 5–8 minutes to re-crisp.
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Do not microwave—the wrappers become soggy and lose crunch.
Tips & Variations:
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Use turkey, pastrami, or smoked chicken for protein variety.
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Swap mozzarella for cheddar, Gruyère, or pepper jack for a bolder taste.
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Add a spoonful of cream cheese, mustard, or pesto inside each roll for an extra kick.
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Add sliced pickles, jalapeños, or even caramelized onions inside for fun texture and flavor.
Nutrition (approx., per roll):
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Calories: ~250
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Protein: 13g
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Carbs: 16g
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Fat: 15g
(Nutrition will vary depending on exact ingredients and cooking method.)
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