These golden, crispy delights are easy to make and deliver a cheesy, gooey center that everyone loves.
Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Marinara sauce, for serving
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Sticks
Begin by unwrapping the mozzarella cheese sticks and cutting each one in half to create shorter sticks. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 1 hour. Freezing the cheese sticks helps them hold their shape during the frying process.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
While the cheese sticks are freezing, prepare the breading station. In one shallow dish, place the flour. In a second dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Bread the Cheese Sticks
Once the cheese sticks are frozen, start the breading process. Dredge each cheese stick in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip the floured cheese stick into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it in the seasoned breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps to double coat each cheese stick.
Step 4: Freeze the Breaded Cheese Sticks
After breading all the cheese sticks, place them back on the baking sheet and freeze for another 30 minutes. This step ensures that the breading adheres well and the cheese remains inside during frying.
Step 5: Fry the Cheese Sticks
In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add a few cheese sticks at a time to the hot oil, frying them until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried cheese sticks to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the hot mozzarella sticks immediately with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the crispy exterior and the gooey, melty cheese center!
Tips for Variation
- Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in freshly chopped parsley or cilantro with the breadcrumbs for a fresh herb flavor.
- Cheese Variety: Try using different types of cheese sticks, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique flavor twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
- Baked Version: For a healthier alternative, bake the breaded cheese sticks in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Macros (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make mozzarella sticks ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the mozzarella sticks ahead of time and freeze them until you’re ready to fry or bake them. This makes them a convenient option for parties or gatherings.
2. How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out while frying?
- Freezing the cheese sticks before frying and double coating them in breadcrumbs helps prevent the cheese from oozing out during cooking.
3. Can I use an air fryer to cook mozzarella sticks?
- Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the mozzarella sticks for 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.
4. What dipping sauces go well with mozzarella sticks?
- Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also serve them with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
Homemade Mozzarella Sticks: A Crunchy and Gooey Delight
Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Marinara sauce for serving
Instructions
- Begin by unwrapping the mozzarella cheese sticks and cutting each one in half to create shorter sticks. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 1 hour. Freezing the cheese sticks helps them hold their shape during the frying process.
- While the cheese sticks are freezing, prepare the breading station. In one shallow dish, place the flour. In a second dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
- Once the cheese sticks are frozen, start the breading process. Dredge each cheese stick in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip the floured cheese stick into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it in the seasoned breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps to double coat each cheese stick.
- After breading all the cheese sticks, place them back on the baking sheet and freeze for another 30 minutes. This step ensures that the breading adheres well and the cheese remains inside during frying.
- In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add a few cheese sticks at a time to the hot oil, frying them until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried cheese sticks to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve the hot mozzarella sticks immediately with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the crispy exterior and the gooey, melty cheese center!