Mozzarella Sticks

This recipe for mozzarella sticks is a delightful treat that brings the fun of deep-fried cheese right into your kitchen. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, these crispy snacks are easy to make and taste even better than restaurant versions. The combination of gooey cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs creates an irresistible appetizer that everyone will love.

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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 Mozzarella Sticks
• How to Make Mozzarella Sticks
• Step 1: Prepare Your Breading Stations
• Step 2: Coat the Cheese
• Step 3: Freeze Before Frying
• Step 4: Heat Oil
• Step 5: Frying Time!
• Step 6: Draining and Serving
• How to Serve Mozzarella Sticks
• With Marinara Sauce
• With Ranch Dressing
• With Spicy Aioli
• On a Charcuterie Board
• With 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 mozzarella sticks without frying?
• Can I use different types of cheese for mozzarella sticks?
• What dipping sauces go well with mozzarella sticks?
• How should I store leftover mozzarella sticks?
• Are homemade mozzarella sticks healthier than restaurant versions?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, making mozzarella sticks at home is a breeze.
• Crispy Perfection: The double coating technique ensures every bite is crunchy on the outside while remaining melty inside.
• Versatile Appetizer: Serve them at parties, game nights, or as a snack for movie marathons—the possibilities are endless!
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mix for a personal touch.
• Great for Sharing: These mozzarella sticks are perfect for sharing with friends and family; just set them out with marinara sauce for dipping!

Tools and Preparation

To make your mozzarella sticks, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will help ensure success in your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep pot
• Cooking thermometer
• Mixing bowls (3)
• Sheet pan
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep pot: A deep pot is crucial for frying, allowing you to fully submerge the mozzarella sticks in hot oil, achieving that perfect crispiness.
• Cooking thermometer: Using a thermometer helps you maintain the ideal oil temperature, ensuring even cooking and preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

This recipe for mozzarella sticks features a few simple yet delicious ingredients that come together to create this cheesy delight.

For the Mozzarella 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 Stations

Begin by placing the flour in a small bowl. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs with salt and pepper. Stir well to ensure even seasoning. In a third bowl, beat the eggs with milk until fully mixed.

Step 2: Coat the Cheese

Dip each piece of string cheese into the flour first. Next, coat it in the egg mixture, followed by the breadcrumbs. Repeat this process by dipping back into the egg and then into the breadcrumbs again for an extra crunchy layer. Place each coated cheese stick on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Freeze Before Frying

Once all cheese sticks are coated, freeze them for at least 2 hours or until they are frozen solid. This step helps keep the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.

Step 4: Heat Oil

In a deep pot, heat about 3 inches of oil to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Use your cooking thermometer to check the temperature accurately.

Step 5: Frying Time!

Carefully place a few cheese sticks at a time into the hot oil. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Ensure not to overcrowd the pot; this can lower the oil temperature.

Step 6: Draining and Serving

Once fried, drain the mozzarella sticks on paper towels to remove excess oil. While they’re still hot, sprinkle with chopped parsley for added flavor and color. Serve immediately with marinara sauce on the side for dipping!

How to Serve Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella sticks make a delightful appetizer that can be served in various ways to enhance their taste. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your mozzarella sticks experience.

With Marinara Sauce

• Serve classic marinara sauce for a traditional pairing that complements the cheesy goodness of mozzarella sticks.

With Ranch Dressing

• Enjoy creamy ranch dressing as a dip for a cool and tangy contrast to the warm, crispy cheese.

With Spicy Aioli

• For those who like heat, offer spicy aioli made with garlic and chili for an extra kick.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include mozzarella sticks on a charcuterie board alongside meats, cheeses, and fruits for a fun sharing platter.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish mozzarella sticks with fresh parsley or basil to add a pop of color and freshness on the plate.

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How to Perfect Mozzarella Sticks

To achieve perfectly crispy mozzarella sticks, follow these handy tips.

• Freeze before frying: Freezing the coated cheese sticks helps prevent them from melting too quickly while cooking.

• Use high-quality cheese: Choose good string cheese for the best flavor and stretchiness when biting into them.

• Control oil temperature: Make sure your oil is at 350 degrees F; too hot can burn them, while too cool can make them soggy.

• Double coating: Dip each stick in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs twice for an extra crunchy coating.

• Fry in batches: Fry only a few at a time to avoid lowering the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Mozzarella Sticks

Pairing side dishes with mozzarella sticks can create a well-rounded meal or snack. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds crisp lettuce and creamy dressing that balances the richness of mozzarella sticks.

2. Garlic Bread: Enjoy warm garlic bread as a flavorful addition that complements the cheesy appetizer perfectly.

3. Buffalo Wings: Spicy buffalo wings provide a delicious contrast to the mild flavor of mozzarella sticks for those who love heat.

4. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that pairs well with fried foods like mozzarella sticks.

5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer an additional comfort food element that goes great alongside mozzarella sticks.

6. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites bring an earthy flavor that enhances the overall appetizer spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mozzarella sticks at home can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make a few common errors.

• Skipping the freezing step: Not freezing the cheese sticks before frying can result in melted cheese spilling out during cooking. Always freeze for at least 2 hours.
• Using too much oil: Overcrowding the pot with mozzarella sticks can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy results. Fry in small batches for crispy sticks.
• Inconsistent coating: Failing to properly coat each stick in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs can cause uneven texture. Ensure an even coating by following the dipping steps carefully.
• Incorrect oil temperature: Frying at the wrong temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside cold. Use a thermometer to maintain an oil temperature of 350°F.
• Not seasoning adequately: A lack of seasoning in the breadcrumbs can lead to bland mozzarella sticks. Don’t hesitate to add salt, pepper, or other spices for flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store mozzarella sticks in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Container: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing Mozzarella Sticks

• • Duration: Frozen mozzarella sticks can last up to 3 months.
• • Container: Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they are well sealed.

Reheating Mozzarella Sticks

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds, but this may make them slightly less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry for a few minutes on each side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about mozzarella sticks that may help you get the best results.

How do I make mozzarella sticks without frying?

You can bake mozzarella sticks by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and baking at 425°F for about 10-12 minutes. This method is healthier but still delicious!

Can I use different types of cheese for mozzarella sticks?

Absolutely! While traditional mozzarella is best, you can experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or even vegan cheese alternatives for unique flavors.

What dipping sauces go well with mozzarella sticks?

Mozzarella sticks pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even spicy aioli. Feel free to get creative with your dips!

How should I store leftover mozzarella sticks?

Store any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Are homemade mozzarella sticks healthier than restaurant versions?

Homemade mozzarella sticks are often healthier since you control the ingredients and cooking methods. You can adjust seasonings and choose healthier oils if desired.

Final Thoughts

These homemade mozzarella sticks offer a delightful crunch and gooey cheese that surpasses restaurant versions. They are perfect as an appetizer or snack and can easily be customized with different cheeses or seasonings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy satisfying your cheesy cravings!