Here’s a high-protein, low-carb baked version of Ham & Cheese Mozzarella Sticks — all the gooey, cheesy goodness without the deep-frying and heavy carbs.
🧀🥓 High-Protein Baked Ham & Cheese Mozzarella Sticks
✅ Ingredients (makes 8 sticks)
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8 sticks part-skim mozzarella cheese (string cheese, ~28 g each)
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4 slices lean deli ham, halved lengthwise
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2 tbsp almond flour
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1 tbsp unflavored whey protein isolate (optional for extra protein)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1 large egg, beaten
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Cooking spray
🔥 Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray lightly.
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Wrap cheese: Take a half slice of ham and wrap it around each mozzarella stick.
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Prepare coating: In a small bowl, mix almond flour, protein powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
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Coat sticks: Dip each ham-wrapped stick into the beaten egg, then roll in the almond flour mixture. Press lightly to adhere.
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Bake: Place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted and coating is golden.
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Optional: Broil 1–2 minutes for extra crispiness.
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Serve immediately — careful, cheese is hot!
🧮 Nutrition (per stick)
| Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber | Net Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 110 | 11 g | 6 g | 1 g | 0.5 g | 0.5 g |
💡 Tips for Best Results
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Freeze ham-wrapped sticks 5–10 minutes before coating to prevent cheese from oozing too early.
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Use lean deli ham to maximize protein.
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Serve with sugar-free marinara or a Greek yogurt-based dipping sauce for extra protein.
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For a crunchier coating, sprinkle parmesan on top before baking.
These are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or high-protein side, indulgent in flavor but macro-friendly.
