Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Mozzarella sticks: The main ingredient, these are cheese sticks that melt perfectly when fried.

All-purpose flour: Used to help the coating stick to the cheese.

Breadcrumbs: Gives the outside a crunchy texture.

Eggs: Beaten eggs help the breadcrumbs stick to the cheese.

Garlic powder: Adds a mild garlic flavor to the coating.

Onion powder: Adds a subtle onion taste to the breading.

Dried oregano: Brings a hint of herb flavor to the crust.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors.

Black pepper: Adds a little bit of spice and depth.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the mozzarella sticks until golden and crispy.

One of the most important steps when making these mozzarella sticks is setting up your breading station and coating the cheese properly. Here’s how to do it so your sticks come out crispy and delicious every time:

1. Start by getting three bowls ready. Put the flour in the first bowl, the beaten eggs in the second, and the breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in the third.
2. Take one mozzarella stick and roll it in the flour first. This helps the egg stick better.
3. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs so the breadcrumbs will stick to it.
4. Finally, roll it in the seasoned breadcrumbs until it’s fully covered.
5. For extra crunch, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb step one more time.

Doing this in the right order makes sure the coating stays on while frying and gives you that perfect golden crust. If you skip the flour or don’t coat the sticks well, the breadcrumbs might fall off in the hot oil, and you’ll lose that yummy crunch.

When I first tried this, I didn’t set up the bowls in a row, and I ended up making a mess dipping the sticks back and forth. Now, I line everything up and work quickly, which keeps my hands clean and the coating smooth. Also, if you freeze the coated sticks for about 30 minutes before frying, they hold together even better and don’t leak melted cheese everywhere. It’s a little trick that makes frying less stressful and way more fun!

• 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.