Crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside, mozzarella sticks are a tasty treat! They’re made with mozzarella cheese, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried to perfection.
These cheesy delights are perfect for snacking, parties, or movie nights. I can’t help but smile when I pull them apart! Just make sure to have some marinara sauce ready for dipping! 🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella cheese sticks: The stars of this dish! Stick with string cheese for that perfect melt. If you can’t find mozzarella, try using provolone or even cheddar for a different flavor.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend using Italian-style breadcrumbs for added flavor. If you want a gluten-free option, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour as a substitute.
Eggs: The eggs create a nice binding for the breadcrumbs. For an egg-free alternative, try using a mixture of ground flaxseed and water—1 tbsp of flaxseed with 2.5 tbsp water works well.
Seasonings: I love adding garlic and onion powder for depth. Feel free to experiment with your spices, such as adding a pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes for a little heat!
What’s the Best Way to Get Crispy Mozzarella Sticks?
To achieve that perfect crispy coating, it’s crucial to freeze the sticks. This step keeps the cheese from melting too fast while frying. Here’s the breakdown:
- After breading, lay the mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and freeze them for at least an hour. This will help them hold their shape during frying.
- When frying, make sure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F). Too cool oil will lead to soggy sticks.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. This ensures each stick gets that golden crunchy outside without steaming.
Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to dip them in marinara sauce — it’s a match made in heaven!
How to Make Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 ½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Marinara sauce, for serving
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and at least 1 hour of freezing time. You’ll spend a few minutes breading the mozzarella sticks, and then you’ll fry them quickly in hot oil until they’re golden and crispy. It’s a fun and tasty project!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Cheese Sticks:
Start by unwrapping the mozzarella sticks. If you like smaller bites, feel free to cut them in half. This makes them perfect for dipping!
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Get three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, mix the eggs and milk together until well combined. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This will give your mozzarella sticks a yummy flavor!
3. Coat the Cheese Sticks:
Take a mozzarella stick and coat it in the flour, shaking off any extra. Now, dip it into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure the crumbs stick well. For an extra crispy coating, do this step twice—first with the egg and then with the breadcrumbs again!
4. Freeze for Firmness:
Place your coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer for at least 1 hour. This helps them hold their shape while frying.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep pan or fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You want it nice and hot for frying!
6. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
Carefully add the frozen mozzarella sticks to the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 1 to 2 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan so they cook evenly.
7. Drain and Serve:
Using a slotted spoon, remove the sticks from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Serve them hot with marinara sauce for dipping, and if you’d like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
Enjoy your delicious, gooey mozzarella sticks!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cheese for This Recipe?
While you can use low-fat cheese, keep in mind that it may not melt as well as traditional mozzarella sticks. For the best results, stick with regular mozzarella cheese for that perfectly gooey texture!
What Oil Is Best for Frying Mozzarella Sticks?
Vegetable oil is a great choice for frying mozzarella sticks because it has a high smoke point. You can also use canola oil or peanut oil for a neutral flavor and a crispy finish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness!
Can I Bake the Mozzarella Sticks Instead of Frying Them?
Yes! To bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and arrange the coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking oil and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. They won’t be as crispy as fried, but they’ll still be delicious!
