Air fryer Crispy Ham Rolls

A recipe for crispy ham rolls made in an air fryer, featuring a cheese core and a seasoned panko crust. The recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 25 minutes to prepare and cook.

Ingredients

• 8 thick slices Delicatessen Ham (Black Forest, Honey, or Smoked)
• 8 sticks or slices Cheese (Swiss, Gruyère, Provolone, or low-moisture Mozzarella)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard (optional)
• ½ cup (60g) All-Purpose Flour
• 2 large Eggs, well-beaten
• 1 tablespoon Milk or Water
• 1 cup (60g) Panko Breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
• ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
• ½ teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• ¼ teaspoon Fine Sea Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
• Cooking Oil Spray (High-smoke-point oil like Avocado or Olive Oil)

Instructions

1. Dry the ham slices on paper towels. Lightly brush a thin line of Dijon mustard across the surface of each slice.
2. Place one stick or tightly folded slice of cheese near the edge of each ham slice and roll the ham tightly around the cheese to form a cylinder. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
3. Set up a breading station: Place flour in the first bowl, whisk eggs and milk/water in the second bowl, and combine panko, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in the third bowl.
4. Dredge each ham roll in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture for complete coverage.
5. Roll the stick firmly in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure adherence. For extra crunch, dip back into egg wash and press into panko a second time.
6. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
7. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking oil. Place breaded rolls in a single layer with at least ½ inch space between each.
8. Generously spritz the top of each roll with cooking oil spray.
9. Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. Pause and flip the rolls with tongs at the 5-minute mark, spraying lightly again after flipping.
10. Remove when golden brown and cheese is soft. Rest on a wire rack for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Prevent cheese leakage by using low-moisture cheeses and ensuring the ham completely envelops the cheese core. Do not crowd the basket to avoid steaming and sogginess; cook in batches if needed. Japanese Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for a lighter, crispier crust.