A savory snack dream come true — these rolls combine smoky ham, melty cheese, and a perfectly crisp golden shell. Whether you’re deep-frying, air-frying, or baking, you’ll get restaurant-quality flavor right from your kitchen. Ideal for parties, appetizers, or indulgent family meals.
Recipe Overview
Servings: 8 rolls
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
Optional Chill Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: ~35–40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best For: Appetizer, snack, lunchbox treat, finger food platter
Storage: 3 days refrigerated | 1 month frozen (pre-fried)
Ingredients
For the Rolls:
Ingredient Quantity Notes
Egg roll wrappers 8 sheets Square, approx. 7×7″ or spring roll wrappers; can use tortillas (trimmed to fit)
Ham slices 8 thin slices Use smoked, honey, or black forest ham — not water-logged types
Mozzarella sticks 8 sticks (string cheese) Cut from block if needed (3-inch long, ½-inch thick)
Egg 1 large Beaten, for sealing edges and optional breadcrumb coating
Optional seasoning To taste Black pepper, smoked paprika, chili flakes inside each roll
For Crunchy Coating (optional, enhances texture):
Ingredient Quantity Notes
Panko breadcrumbs ¾ cup Extra crispy Japanese-style preferred
Grated Parmesan cheese 2 tbsp Adds umami and browning
Garlic powder ½ tsp Optional flavor boost
Smoked paprika ½ tsp Optional color and smokiness
Fine salt ⅛ tsp To balance flavor
For Frying or Air Frying:
Oil for deep frying: Canola or sunflower (neutral flavor, high smoke point)
OR oil spray for air fryer or oven method
Suggested Dips:
Marinara sauce
Spicy honey mustard
Sriracha-mayo blend
Ranch dressing
Garlic-herb yogurt dip
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Set Up Your Station
Lay out wrappers on a clean, dry surface.
Line a tray with parchment paper for your assembled rolls.
Set your beaten egg in a small bowl.
Mix your breadcrumb coating in another shallow dish if using.
Step 2: Assemble the Rolls
Follow these steps for each roll:
Position your wrapper: Place the egg roll wrapper in a diamond shape (one point facing you).
Lay a slice of ham horizontally across the center of the wrapper.
Fold it if necessary to match wrapper size.
Place cheese stick on top of the ham.
Season inside (optional): Add a pinch of pepper, chili flakes, or even a dab of mustard.
Fold the bottom corner up, tucking it over the ham and cheese.
Fold the left and right corners in, like an envelope.
Roll tightly upward, brushing the final corner with beaten egg to seal.
Optional: Roll each piece in egg again, then into the breadcrumb mixture for a golden, crunchy shell.
Place the finished rolls on a tray, seam-side down.
Step 3: Chill (Recommended)
Refrigerate the prepared rolls for 15 minutes before cooking.
This helps the wrapper seal fully.
Prevents cheese leakage during frying or baking.
Cooking Instructions
Option 1: Deep-Frying (Most Authentic)
In a deep skillet or pot, heat 2 inches of oil to 350–360°F (175–180°C).
Gently lower 2–3 rolls at a time into the hot oil.
Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.
Remove with tongs and transfer to a paper towel-lined tray.
Tip: If the oil temp drops, the rolls may absorb excess oil and get greasy. Let it come back to temp between batches.
Option 2: Air Fryer (Healthier Method)
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Lightly spray the rolls with oil on all sides.
Place in a single layer, leaving space between each roll.
Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crisp.
Option 3: Oven Baked
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
Brush with oil or melted butter.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, flipping once at the halfway mark.
Serving & Presentation
Garnish Ideas:
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top before serving.
Add a dusting of grated Parmesan.
Serve with a trio of dipping sauces on a wooden platter or board.
Best Served:
Hot and fresh, when cheese is gooey and wrappers are crisp.
Alongside a fresh green salad, potato wedges, or even soup for a heartier meal.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Leftovers:
Cool completely.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer until re-crisped.
Freezer-Friendly:
Prepare and freeze before cooking: wrap each roll in plastic wrap and freeze in a zip bag.
Cook from frozen: add 2–4 minutes to baking or air-frying time.
Advanced Tips & Variations
Cheese Options: Sharp cheddar, pepper jack, provolone, Swiss, or gouda.
Add Veggies: Thinly sliced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be layered with ham.
For Kids: Use mild cheeses and serve with ketchup or BBQ dip.
Add Heat: Add a sliver of jalapeño or a squirt of sriracha inside each roll.
Upgrade Flavor: Mix 1 tsp of Dijon mustard or pesto with cheese for a gourmet twist.
⚖️ Nutritional Info (Per Roll – Fried)
Nutrient Approximate Amount
Calories 250–280 kcal
Protein 12–14g
Carbs 15–20g
Fat 16–18g
Sodium ~600 mg
Values vary depending on ingredients and cooking method.
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