Mozzarella Sticks

This recipe for mozzarella sticks is a delightful treat that brings the joy of crispy, golden cheese to your home kitchen. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, these mozzarella sticks are an easy appetizer that surpasses what you might find at a restaurant. With a crunchy breadcrumb coating and gooey melted cheese inside, they are sure to impress your family and friends.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cheese Sticks
• How to Make Mozzarella Sticks
• Step 1: Prepare Your Breading Station
• Step 2: Bread the Cheese Sticks
• Step 3: Freeze Before Frying
• Step 4: Heat Oil
• Step 5: Fry the Mozzarella Sticks
• Step 6: Drain and Serve
• How to Serve Mozzarella Sticks
• With Marinara Sauce
• Ranch Dressing
• Garlic Butter Dip
• Spicy Sriracha Mayo
• Fresh Herbs
• How to Perfect Mozzarella Sticks
• Best Side Dishes for Mozzarella Sticks
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Mozzarella Sticks
• Reheating Mozzarella Sticks
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make gluten-free mozzarella sticks?
• Can I bake mozzarella sticks instead of frying?
• How can I customize my mozzarella sticks?
• What dipping sauces work well with mozzarella sticks?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare – These mozzarella sticks can be made in just about 30 minutes (not including freezing time), making them perfect for any last-minute gathering.
• Crispy and Delicious – The double-breading technique ensures an extra crispy texture that pairs perfectly with marinara sauce.
• Versatile Appetizer – Great for game day, parties, or a fun snack at home, mozzarella sticks fit any occasion.
• Customizable Flavors – You can easily add spices or herbs to the breadcrumbs for a unique twist on flavor.
• Kid-Friendly Fun – Kids love these cheesy snacks! They can even help with the preparation for some family fun in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To make these mozzarella sticks, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pot
• Mixing bowls
• Parchment paper
• Deep frying thermometer
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pot – A deep pot allows for even frying without splattering oil everywhere.
• Mixing bowls – Using separate bowls helps maintain organization during the breading process.
• Deep frying thermometer – Ensures you achieve the right oil temperature for perfectly cooked mozzarella sticks.

Ingredients

This recipe requires simple ingredients that come together to create delicious mozzarella sticks.

For the Cheese Sticks

• 16 string cheese (cut in half crosswise)
• 1/3 cup all purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups Italian style breadcrumbs
• salt and pepper to taste
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons milk
• oil for frying
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 cup marinara sauce

How to Make Mozzarella Sticks

Step 1: Prepare Your Breading Station

Begin by setting up three bowls.
1. Place the flour in one bowl.
2. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs with salt and pepper.
3. In a third bowl, beat together eggs and milk until well mixed.

Step 2: Bread the Cheese Sticks

1. Take each piece of cheese and dip it into the flour first, ensuring it’s fully coated.
2. Next, dip it into the egg mixture.
3. Then coat it with breadcrumbs before repeating the egg dip followed by another breadcrumb coating.
4. Lay each finished stick on a parchment-lined sheet pan.

Step 3: Freeze Before Frying

Freeze your breaded cheese sticks for at least 2 hours or until they’re frozen solid. This step is crucial as it helps them hold their shape during frying.

Step 4: Heat Oil

In a deep pot, heat about 3 inches of oil until it reaches 350 degrees F. Use a thermometer to check the temperature accurately.

Step 5: Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

1. Carefully place a few frozen cheese sticks into the hot oil.
2. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Remove the fried mozzarella sticks from oil using tongs and drain them on paper towels. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your homemade mozzarella sticks!

How to Serve Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella sticks are a delightful appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a movie night, these cheesy treats can be paired with different dips and sides to elevate the experience.

With Marinara Sauce

• Marinara sauce is the classic dip for mozzarella sticks. Its rich tomato flavor complements the gooey cheese perfectly.

Ranch Dressing

• Creamy ranch dressing adds a zesty twist to the mozzarella sticks, enhancing their savory goodness.

Garlic Butter Dip

• A warm garlic butter dip brings an indulgent touch. It’s simple to make and pairs beautifully with the crispy coating of the sticks.

Spicy Sriracha Mayo

• For those who enjoy heat, spicy sriracha mayo offers a creamy and fiery contrast to the mildness of mozzarella.

Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top for an aromatic finish. This adds color and freshness to your dish.

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How to Perfect Mozzarella Sticks

Achieving the perfect mozzarella sticks requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Freeze Thoroughly: Freezing the coated cheese sticks for at least 2 hours helps them maintain shape while frying.
• Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is heated to 350 degrees F before frying. This ensures they become golden brown without absorbing too much oil.
• Do Not Overcrowd: Fry only a few mozzarella sticks at a time. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy sticks.
• Double Coating: For extra crunch, double coat each cheese stick by dipping them in egg and breadcrumbs twice.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy mozzarella sticks right after frying when they are warm and crispy for the best taste experience.

Best Side Dishes for Mozzarella Sticks

Pairing your mozzarella sticks with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes a great accompaniment, adding more delicious carbs to your snack table.
2. Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast with its crunchy greens and tangy dressing.
3. Buffalo Wings: Spicy buffalo wings add excitement and variety, making your meal feel like a feast.
4. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw brings coolness and crunch, balancing out the hot, cheesy flavor.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites complement mozzarella sticks perfectly with their earthy flavors.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are another comfort food favorite that pairs well with cheesy appetizers.
7. Veggie Platter: Fresh veggies provide a healthy option while offering additional textures and flavors alongside mozzarella sticks.
8. Onion Rings: Golden onion rings add another layer of crunchiness that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making mozzarella sticks, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Freezing Step: Freezing the cheese sticks is crucial for keeping their shape during frying. Make sure to freeze them for at least 2 hours.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Failing to season the breadcrumbs can result in bland mozzarella sticks. Add salt and pepper liberally to enhance flavor.
• Using the Wrong Oil Temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, your mozzarella sticks will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to ensure it’s at 350 degrees F.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Frying too many mozzarella sticks at once lowers the oil temperature. Fry them in small batches for even cooking and crispiness.
• Not Double Coating: Skipping the double coating process can lead to cheese leakage during frying. Always dip your cheese sticks in egg twice for a thicker layer.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Mozzarella Sticks

• Place cooked or uncooked mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mozzarella Sticks

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Bake for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds, but be aware they may not stay crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about making mozzarella sticks.

How do I make gluten-free mozzarella sticks?

To make gluten-free mozzarella sticks, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I bake mozzarella sticks instead of frying?

Yes! For healthier options, brush them lightly with oil and bake at 400 degrees F for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

How can I customize my mozzarella sticks?

You can customize your mozzarella sticks by adding herbs or spices to the breadcrumbs or by using different types of cheese like cheddar or pepper jack.

What dipping sauces work well with mozzarella sticks?

Marinara sauce is classic, but you can also try ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or spicy salsa for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for mozzarella sticks is not only fun but also incredibly versatile. You can customize flavors and serve them with various dipping sauces. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a party appetizer, these cheesy delights are sure to please!