These crispy mozzarella sticks are a fun and cheesy treat! They are coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden, giving you a crunchy outside and melted cheese inside. Yum!
Perfect as a snack or appetizer, I can’t resist the gooey cheese that stretches when you take a bite. They’re like little cheesy hugs for your taste buds! 🧀😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese Sticks: Classic string cheese works best for that gooey texture. If you’re looking for something different, try using provolone or cheddar cheese sticks, though they may melt differently.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add flavor, but if you’re out, plain breadcrumbs work too. You could also use panko for an extra crunch or even crushed crackers for a different twist!
Eggs: The eggs help the coating stick to the cheese. If you need an egg-free option, use a mixture of 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water instead.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and dried parsley enhance flavor. Feel free to experiment with other spices like Italian seasoning or paprika for a flavorful kick!
How Can You Achieve the Perfect Crunch?
The secret to perfectly crispy mozzarella sticks is all in the preparation. Freezing the sticks before frying is crucial. It keeps the cheese from leaking out as they cook.
- After breading, double coat the sticks by dipping again in the egg and breadcrumb mix. This adds an extra layer of crunch and helps seal the cheese.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; 350°F is ideal. Test with a small piece of breadcrumb – if it bubbles and sizzles, it’s ready!
- Fry in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature. Overcrowding can lead to soggy sticks.
With these tips, you’ll have golden, crunchy mozzarella sticks that are sure to impress!
How to Make Crispy Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mozzarella Sticks:
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of active preparation time. You will also need an additional 1 hour for freezing the mozzarella sticks. So, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes total to make these delicious treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks:
Start by unwrapping the mozzarella sticks. If you want smaller bites, feel free to cut each stick in half. Line a tray with parchment paper and place the cheese sticks on it. Put them in the freezer for at least 1 hour. Freezing helps prevent the cheese from leaking out during frying.
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
While the cheese sticks are freezing, prepare three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until combined. In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread the Cheese Sticks:
Take the frozen mozzarella sticks out of the freezer. One at a time, dredge each stick in flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off as well. Finally, roll the stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so the breadcrumbs stick well.
4. Double Coat for Extra Crunch:
To help achieve a nice crunchy layer and prevent any cheese leakage, dip the coated stick back into the egg mixture and roll it in the breadcrumbs again. This double coating is key for a perfect mozzarella stick!
5. Freeze Again:
Place the breaded mozzarella sticks back on the tray and pop them in the freezer for an extra 30 minutes. This will ensure they hold their shape while frying.
6. Heat Up the Oil:
In a deep fryer or a large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). It’s important that the oil is hot enough so the sticks fry quickly and turn golden brown.
7. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
Carefully add a few mozzarella sticks to the hot oil at a time. Fry them for about 1-2 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot.
8. Drain and Serve:
Once golden, use a slotted spoon to remove the sticks from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your crispy mozzarella sticks immediately with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness!
Can I Use Other Cheeses Instead of Mozzarella?
Yes! While mozzarella is the classic choice for its melty texture, you can try using provolone, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just be mindful that different cheeses melt at different rates!
How Do I Store Leftover Mozzarella Sticks?
Store any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crunchiness!
Can I Make These in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bread the mozzarella sticks ahead of time and freeze them. Just make sure to freeze them after breading and then fry them directly from the freezer for a quick, fresh snack.
What’s the Best Oil for Frying Mozzarella Sticks?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all great options for frying. They have high smoke points and won’t impart any strong flavors to the mozzarella sticks, ensuring they taste delicious!
