
These golden bites combine savory ham, creamy mozzarella, a light homemade batter, and a crunchy breadcrumb coating that turns wonderfully crisp during frying. What makes this recipe especially appealing is how simple it is. A cube of mozzarella gets tucked inside a slice of ham, dipped in a quick batter, rolled in breadcrumbs, and fried until beautifully golden.
These fritters can be served as a party snack, game-day treat, or even a fun addition to a casual dinner.
What Are Fried Ham Fritters?
Fried ham fritters are a delightful combination of cured ham and cheese wrapped together, coated in batter and breadcrumbs, then fried. While many traditional fritters are made from vegetables, seafood, or dough-based mixtures, modern home cooks have embraced creative versions like these ham-and-cheese bites.
Pro Tips for the Best Fried Ham Fritters
- Fresh mozzarella contains a lot of moisture, which can sometimes escape during frying. Firmer mozzarella cubes hold their shape better and create a neat, cheesy center.
- A snug wrap helps keep the cheese enclosed while frying and prevents it from leaking into the oil.
- They may seem like a small detail, but toothpicks help keep everything securely in place while coating and frying.
- Whisk thoroughly until no lumps remain. A smooth batter creates an even coating and better breadcrumb coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Mozzarella is popular because it melts beautifully, but cheeses such as provolone, scamorza, cheddar, or gouda can also work well. Choose a cheese that melts smoothly and isn't overly soft before frying.
Can I Bake Them Instead of Frying?
Place the coated fritters on a lined baking tray and bake until golden and heated through. The texture will be slightly different from deep-fried versions, but they will still be crunchy.
What Can I Serve With Fried Ham Fritters?
These fritters pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, honey mustard, spicy ketchup, or a creamy herb dip. They also work well alongside fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or other party appetizers.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, allow the fritters to cool completely before storing them and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, reheat them in an oven or air fryer rather than a microwave.
Ingredients
How to Make Cheesy Ham Fritters
Place a mozzarella cube on a slice of ham and wrap the ham around it completely. Secure the parcel with a toothpick to keep everything in place.
Place a mozzarella cube on a slice of ham and wrap the ham around it completely. Secure the parcel with a toothpick to keep everything in place.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Add the egg and water gradually while whisking until you have a lump-free batter.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Add the egg and water gradually while whisking until you have a lump-free batter.
Dip each ham-wrapped mozzarella parcel into the batter, making sure it is evenly coated.
Dip each ham-wrapped mozzarella parcel into the batter, making sure it is evenly coated.
Roll each battered parcel in breadcrumbs until completely covered.
Roll each battered parcel in breadcrumbs until completely covered.
Fry in hot oil until they get crispy and golden (about 5 minutes).
Fry in hot oil until they get crispy and golden (about 5 minutes).
Transfer the cooked fritters to a plate and remove the toothpicks before serving.
Transfer the cooked fritters to a plate and remove the toothpicks before serving.