Fried Mozzarella Cheese Sticks Recipe

Mozzarella cheese sticks: The star of the dish, providing a gooey, melty center.

All-purpose flour: Used for the initial coating to help the egg adhere.

Breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy outer layer when fried.

Beaten eggs: Acts as a binder to help the breadcrumbs stick to the cheese sticks.

Garlic powder: Adds a hint of savory flavor to the coating.

Onion powder: Enhances the overall taste with a subtle onion flavor.

Dried oregano: Provides a touch of herbaceousness.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the coating.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the cheese sticks to golden perfection.

To ensure a perfectly crispy coating on your mozzarella sticks, make sure to double-dip them in the egg and breadcrumb mixture. This extra layer of coating helps to seal in the cheese and prevents it from oozing out during frying. Additionally, make sure your oil is at the right temperature; too hot and the coating will burn before the cheese melts, too cool and the sticks will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Aim for a medium heat to achieve that golden brown perfection.

• mozzarella cheese sticks - Substitute with string cheese: String cheese is essentially mozzarella and has a similar texture, making it a convenient substitute.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch provides a similar coating and helps achieve a crispy texture when fried.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier, which can give the cheese sticks an extra crunch.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can help the breadcrumbs adhere to the cheese sticks and adds a slight tangy flavor.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a more intense and aromatic garlic flavor.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Finely chopped onions can offer a fresh and slightly sweet onion flavor.

• dried oregano - Substitute with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning includes oregano along with other herbs, adding a more complex flavor profile.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the cheese sticks.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it suitable for frying.

• Allow the fried mozzarella sticks to cool completely at room temperature. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching each other. This step is crucial to prevent them from sticking together.
• Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the mozzarella sticks freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid. This initial freezing step is known as flash freezing.
• Once frozen, transfer the mozzarella sticks to a resealable plastic freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• Store the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for up to 3 months. This ensures they maintain their quality and flavor.
• When ready to enjoy, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the frozen mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake the mozzarella sticks for 8-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and the coating is crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the mozzarella sticks in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
• Serve the reheated mozzarella sticks immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce or ranch dressing.

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the leftover fried mozzarella cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes until they are heated through and the cheese is melty again.

• Use an air fryer for a quick and crispy reheat. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the basket. Heat for 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil and place the mozzarella sticks in the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they are warmed through and crispy.

• If you’re in a hurry, the microwave can be used, though it may not retain the crispiness. Place the mozzarella sticks on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 20-30 seconds, checking to ensure they are heated through.

• For a toaster oven, preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place the mozzarella sticks on the rack or a baking sheet and heat for 5-6 minutes until they are hot and the cheese is gooey.

• Cutting board: A sturdy surface to safely cut the mozzarella sticks in half.

• Knife: Essential for cutting the mozzarella sticks evenly.

• Mixing bowls: Three bowls to hold the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumb mixture.

• Whisk: Useful for beating the eggs until smooth.

• Measuring cups: To accurately measure the flour, breadcrumbs, and oil.

• Measuring spoons: To measure the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and salt.

• Frying pan: A pan to heat the oil and fry the mozzarella sticks.

• Tongs: Handy for turning the mozzarella sticks while frying and for removing them from the oil.

• Paper towels: To drain the excess oil from the fried mozzarella sticks.

• Plate: To hold the mozzarella sticks after they are fried and drained.

• Serving dish: For presenting the mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Cut the mozzarella sticks and measure out the flour, breadcrumbs, and spices in advance.

Double coat efficiently: Use one hand for dry ingredients and the other for wet to keep the process smooth and avoid clumping.

Preheat oil: Start heating the vegetable oil while you coat the cheese sticks to save time.

Batch frying: Fry multiple mozzarella sticks at once, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly.