Mozzarella Sticks

This recipe for mozzarella sticks is a delightful treat that brings the cheesy goodness of restaurant-style appetizers right to your home. These crispy, golden-brown delights are perfect for parties, movie nights, or even as a fun snack. With gooey melted cheese and a crunchy coating, mozzarella sticks are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Mozzarella Sticks
• How to Make Mozzarella Sticks
• Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
• Step 2: Coat the Cheese Sticks
• Step 3: Freeze Them
• Step 4: Frying Time!
• Step 5: Serve Your Mozzarella Sticks
• How to Serve Mozzarella Sticks
• With Marinara Sauce
• Sprinkle with Fresh Herbs
• Create a Platter
• Pair with Veggies
• Add Spicy Kick
• How to Perfect Mozzarella Sticks
• Best Side Dishes for Mozzarella Sticks
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Mozzarella Sticks
• Reheating Mozzarella Sticks
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Mozzarella Sticks?
• Can I use other types of cheese?
• How do I make mozzarella sticks gluten-free?
• Can I air fry mozzarella sticks?
• What should I serve with mozzarella sticks?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple and straightforward.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a family gathering, these mozzarella sticks will be a hit.
• Crispy Texture: The double breading ensures a perfect crunch on the outside while keeping the cheese gooey inside.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
• Serve with Marinara: Pair these sticks with marinara sauce for an authentic Italian experience.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious mozzarella sticks, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep pot
• Mixing bowls
• Sheet pan
• Parchment paper
• Tongs or slotted spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep pot: A deep pot allows you to fry multiple cheese sticks at once without splashing oil everywhere.
• Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls helps keep your ingredients organized during preparation.
• Sheet pan: Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking when freezing your cheese sticks.

Ingredients

This recipe for mozzarella sticks features the following ingredients, ensuring you get that perfect combination of flavors:

For the Mozzarella Sticks

• 16 string cheese (cut in half crosswise)
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups Italian style breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons milk
• Oil for frying
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 cup marinara sauce

How to Make Mozzarella Sticks

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Place the flour in a small bowl.
2. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
3. In a third bowl, beat together the eggs and milk until well mixed.

Step 2: Coat the Cheese Sticks

1. Dip each piece of string cheese into the flour first.
2. Next, dip it into the egg mixture.
3. Roll it in the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Repeat dipping in the egg and breadcrumb again for an extra layer of coating.
5. Place each finished cheese stick on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Freeze Them

• Freeze the coated cheese sticks for at least 2 hours or until they are frozen solid.

Step 4: Frying Time!

1. Heat about 3 inches of oil in a deep pot until it reaches 350 degrees F.
2. Carefully place a few cheese sticks at a time into the hot oil.
3. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

Step 5: Serve Your Mozzarella Sticks

• Remove from oil using tongs or a slotted spoon, then drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with marinara sauce on the side.

With these easy steps, you’ll have homemade mozzarella sticks that rival any restaurant offering! Enjoy your cheesy creation!

How to Serve Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella sticks are a delightful appetizer that can be served in various ways. They pair well with dips and garnishes, enhancing their flavor and presentation.

With Marinara Sauce

• Serve warm mozzarella sticks alongside a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy tomato flavor complements the cheesy goodness perfectly.

Sprinkle with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish mozzarella sticks with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch. This adds color and enhances the flavor profile of your dish.

Create a Platter

• Arrange mozzarella sticks on a platter with assorted dips such as ranch dressing or garlic aioli. This offers variety and caters to different taste preferences.

Pair with Veggies

• Offer a side of fresh vegetables like celery and carrots. Their crunchiness contrasts nicely with the gooey texture of mozzarella sticks.

Add Spicy Kick

• Serve with sriracha or a spicy marinara sauce for those who enjoy heat. This adds excitement to the traditional flavors of mozzarella sticks.

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How to Perfect Mozzarella Sticks

To ensure your mozzarella sticks turn out perfectly crispy and delicious, follow these essential tips.

• Use string cheese – Opt for string cheese for the best melting properties and texture when frying.
• Double breading – Coat each stick twice in breadcrumbs for an extra crispy layer that holds up during frying.
• Freeze before frying – Freeze the coated mozzarella sticks for at least 2 hours to prevent them from melting too quickly when cooked.
• Maintain oil temperature – Keep your frying oil at 350 degrees F to achieve that perfect golden brown without burning the coating.
• Drain properly – Place fried mozzarella sticks on paper towels immediately after cooking to absorb excess oil and keep them crispy.
• Serve hot – Enjoy them right after frying for the best taste and texture; they are at their prime when served fresh!

Best Side Dishes for Mozzarella Sticks

Pairing side dishes with your mozzarella sticks can enhance your appetizer experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – A classic choice that complements the cheesy flavor, perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce.
2. Caesar Salad – A refreshing salad that balances the richness of mozzarella sticks, adding crunch and greens to your meal.
3. Buffalo Wings – For those who love a bit of heat, buffalo wings provide a spicy kick that pairs well with cheesy snacks.
4. Onion Rings – Crispy onion rings add another layer of crunchiness, making them a great side dish alongside fried cheese.
5. Potato Wedges – Seasoned potato wedges offer heartiness and can also be dipped in marinara or ranch dressing.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms – These savory bites complement the flavors of mozzarella, making your appetizer spread more exciting.
7. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw brings freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of fried cheese.
8. Marinated Olives – Flavorful marinated olives can add an unexpected twist and enhance your appetizer table’s variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making mozzarella sticks, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for to ensure a perfect outcome.

• Skipping the Freezing Step: Failing to freeze the cheese sticks can cause them to ooze during frying. Always freeze them for at least 2 hours before cooking.
• Not Properly Coating: Neglecting to coat the cheese thoroughly can lead to uneven breading. Follow the coating steps carefully for best results.
• Using Too Much Oil: Overcrowding the pot with oil can result in a temperature drop, leading to soggy sticks. Fry in small batches to maintain consistent heat.
• Ignoring Oil Temperature: Frying at a temperature that’s too low or too high can burn or undercook your mozzarella sticks. Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F.
• Not Draining Properly: Skipping the draining step after frying allows excess oil to soak into the sticks. Place them on paper towels immediately after frying for crispiness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store mozzarella sticks in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Mozzarella Sticks

• Freeze cooked mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mozzarella Sticks

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 30 seconds, but be aware they may become chewy instead of crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding mozzarella sticks:

What are Mozzarella Sticks?

Mozzarella sticks are deep-fried cheese snacks coated in breadcrumbs, often served with marinara sauce.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavors.

How do I make mozzarella sticks gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour as substitutes in your recipe.

Can I air fry mozzarella sticks?

Absolutely! Air frying is a great way to make mozzarella sticks healthier while still achieving that crispy texture.

What should I serve with mozzarella sticks?

They pair perfectly with marinara sauce, but you can also try ranch dressing or spicy aioli.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for mozzarella sticks is not only easy but also incredibly satisfying. They make a fantastic appetizer for parties or cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize your dipping sauces or try different cheeses to suit your taste preferences!