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Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 106 reviews

These homemade mozzarella sticks are crispy on the outside and ooey-gooey on the inside, making a perfect appetizer or snack. Coated in seasoned Panko breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection, they are best served hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Ingredients

Scale

Coating Mixture

  • 1 ½ cups (106 g) plain Panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon table salt

Breading Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup (63 g) all-purpose flour

Main Ingredient

  • 1 lb whole milk mozzarella block or 15 whole milk string cheese

Cooking Oil

  • Vegetable oil for frying

Serving

  • Marinara sauce for dipping (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cheese: If using a mozzarella block, cut the cheese into uniform sticks approximately 3 inches long and ½ inch thick to ensure even cooking. If using string cheese, leave them whole or cut in half for smaller sticks.
  2. Set up the breading station: In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In a second bowl, place the flour. In a third bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning, dried parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt, mixing thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
  3. Bread the cheese sticks: Dip each cheese stick first into the flour, ensuring it is completely coated and shaking off excess. Then, submerge it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it evenly with the seasoned Panko mixture, pressing gently so the breadcrumbs adhere well. For an extra crispy coating, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps once more.
  4. Freeze the coated sticks: Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Freeze for at least 1 hour to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
  5. Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to fully submerge the sticks for even frying.
  6. Fry the mozzarella sticks: Carefully add a few frozen cheese sticks to the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 1.5 to 2 minutes or until the coating is golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sticks and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  7. Serve immediately: Serve the mozzarella sticks hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the melty cheese center contrasted by the crispy outer crust.

Notes

  • Freezing the breaded sticks is crucial to prevent the cheese from leaking during frying.
  • Use whole milk mozzarella for the best melting texture and flavor.
  • Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to ensure crispy coating and minimal oil absorption.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan while frying; fry in batches for even cooking.
  • Leftover mozzarella sticks can be reheated in an oven or air fryer for crispiness, but are best enjoyed fresh.

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, homemade mozzarella sticks, fried cheese sticks, crispy mozzarella, appetizer, snack, Italian appetizer, marinara dipping sauce

Find it online: https://busyrecipe.com/homemade-mozzarella-sticks-recipe/