Description
Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, Classic Homemade Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a game night or indulging in a late-night snack, these cheesy delights are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
For the Mozzarella Sticks:
-
1 lb whole milk mozzarella block (or 12 oz string cheese)
-
1 cup all-purpose flour
-
2 large eggs
-
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
-
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (e.g., basil, oregano)
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
Vegetable oil for frying
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cheese: Cut the mozzarella block into 3-inch by ¾-inch sticks. If using string cheese, cut each piece in half.
-
Set Up Breading Stations:
-
Flour Station: Place flour in a shallow dish.
-
Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
-
Breadcrumb Mixture: Combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper in another shallow dish.
-
-
Bread the Cheese:
-
Dip each cheese stick into the flour, coating evenly.
-
Dip into the egg wash, letting excess drip off.
-
Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
-
-
Double Coat for Extra Crunch: For a thicker crust, repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb coating process.
-
Freeze: Place breaded cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 1 hour to prevent cheese melting out.
-
Cook the Mozzarella Sticks:
-
Frying: Heat vegetable oil to 365°F (185°C) in a deep fryer or large pot. Fry in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
-
Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
-
Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Air fry in a single layer for 7–9 minutes.
-
-
Serve: Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
For a spicy twist, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.Air frying gives a crispy result with less oil.Mozzarella sticks can be prepped and frozen for later use.
