These cheesy mozzarella sticks are a fun snack that everyone loves! They are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making them super tasty for dipping in marinara sauce.
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy pull? I like to serve them at parties, and they always disappear fast—like they have little legs! 😂 So grab your cheese and let’s make some!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese Sticks: Use string cheese for the best results. You can opt for part-skim mozzarella if you want a lower-fat version. For a non-dairy option, try vegan mozzarella brands, although melting may vary.
Breadcrumbs: I love using Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor, but panko works wonderfully too! If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.
Eggs: Eggs help the coating stick. If you’re vegan or allergic, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or a commercial egg replacer.
Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste. Adding some crushed red pepper can give a little kick if you prefer spicy sticks!
How to Keep Your Mozzarella Sticks from Melting Too Quickly?
The freezing step is key to making perfect mozzarella sticks. If you skip it, the cheese might melt too fast in the oil and leave a mess. Here’s how to ensure they stay intact:
- Freeze the cheese sticks for at least an hour before coating.
- After coating, freeze them for another 30 minutes. This extra chill helps the coating set firmly.
- Fry only a few at a time. This prevents the oil from cooling down too much, which can cause uneven cooking.
Following these steps closely will help you achieve crispy, gooey mozzarella sticks that are perfect for dipping! Enjoy your snack! 😄
How to Make Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Mozzarella Sticks:
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 1/2 cups Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs (panko works well)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 2 hours and 30 minutes. This includes 1 hour for freezing the mozzarella sticks, 30 minutes for the second freeze after coating them, and about 15-20 minutes for frying them. It’s a bit of waiting, but so worth it for that cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks:
Start by placing the mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer. Pop them in the freezer for at least 1 hour. This helps keep the cheese from melting too quickly when you fry them.
2. Set Up the Breading Stations:
While your mozzarella sticks are freezing, prepare your breading stations. In a shallow bowl, add the flour. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and water together until well combined. In a third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks:
Once the mozzarella sticks are frozen, it’s time to coat them! Take a stick, coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the egg mixture and let it drip slightly. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until it’s evenly coated. For an extra crispy result, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step with each stick.
4. Freeze Again:
After coating them, place the sticks back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for another 30 minutes. This will help the coating stick better when frying.
5. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 1-2 minutes until they turn a nice golden brown and are crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil.
6. Drain and Serve:
Transfer the fried mozzarella sticks to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy your cheesy creation!
Remember, the key to perfect mozzarella sticks is to keep that cheese nice and firm during the process—patience is key! Enjoy your crispy, gooey mozzarella sticks! 😋
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor. Just ensure they are stick-like shapes that can hold up when frying.
Can I Bake these Mozzarella Sticks Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the coated sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat them in an air fryer or oven to crisp them up, rather than using a microwave which can make them soggy.
Can I Freeze the Coated Sticks for Later?
Definitely! After coating them, you can freeze the mozzarella sticks uncooked. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry them directly from frozen when ready to eat—just add a minute or two to the frying time!