Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Mozzarella sticks: These are the main ingredient and provide the cheesy center for the sticks.

All-purpose flour: Used to coat the mozzarella sticks before dipping in the egg mixture.

Breadcrumbs: These create the crispy outer layer when fried.

Beaten eggs: Help the breadcrumbs adhere to the mozzarella sticks.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor to the breadcrumb coating.

Onion powder: Enhances the flavor of the breadcrumb mixture.

Dried oregano: Provides a hint of herbaceous flavor to the coating.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the mozzarella sticks.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and flavor to the breadcrumb mixture.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the mozzarella sticks to a golden brown.

When coating the mozzarella sticks, make sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the surface to ensure an even and thorough coating. This helps create a crispy exterior that seals in the cheese and prevents it from leaking out during frying. For an extra crispy texture, you can double-coat the sticks by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.

• mozzarella sticks - Substitute with string cheese: String cheese has a similar texture and melts well, making it a good alternative for mozzarella sticks.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can provide a crispier coating and is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and airier, resulting in a crunchier texture.

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

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

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Finely chopped onions offer a fresher and more intense onion flavor.

• dried oregano - Substitute with fresh oregano: Fresh oregano has a more vibrant and aromatic flavor compared to dried oregano.

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

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used to avoid black specks in the coating.

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

• Allow the mozzarella sticks to cool completely after frying. 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 avoid them 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 helps maintain their shape.
• Once frozen, transfer the mozzarella sticks to a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• 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 cheese is melted. 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 to ensure even cooking.
• Serve the reheated mozzarella sticks immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, for a delicious snack or appetizer.

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-10 minutes until they are hot and the cheese is melty. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

• 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. Heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

• 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 2-3 minutes on each side until they are heated 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 with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 20-30 seconds, checking to see if they are heated through.

• Three bowls: Used to set up the breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumb mixture.

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

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

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

• Measuring cups: Essential for measuring out the flour, breadcrumbs, and vegetable oil.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.

• Whisk: Useful for beating the eggs until they are well combined.

• Plate: Can be used to hold the breaded mozzarella sticks before frying.

• Slotted spoon: Useful for removing the mozzarella sticks from the oil while leaving the excess oil behind.

• Thermometer: Optional but helpful for ensuring the oil is at the right temperature for frying.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix the breadcrumbs with spices ahead of time to streamline the breading process.

Freeze mozzarella sticks: Freeze the mozzarella sticks for at least 30 minutes before breading to prevent them from melting too quickly when frying.

Use a deep fryer: A deep fryer can cook multiple mozzarella sticks at once, saving time compared to frying in batches on the stove.

Double coat for extra crunch: For a crispier texture, dip the mozzarella sticks in the egg mixture and breadcrumbs twice.