Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella sticks are the ultimate snack or appetizer for any occasion, delivering the perfect balance of crispy breading and gooey melted cheese. These homemade Mozzarella Sticks are easy to make and bake up golden and crispy in just minutes. Paired with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

• 8 sticks mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Marinara sauce for dipping

Directions

1. Prepare the cheese: Cut the mozzarella cheese into 8 equal sticks.
2. Set up dipping stations: In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and Italian seasoning together.
3. Coat the cheese sticks: Dip each mozzarella stick first into the flour, coating it evenly. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
4. Freeze the sticks: Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cheese hold its shape while baking.
5. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Bake the sticks: Once the mozzarella sticks are frozen, bake them in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until golden and crispy.
7. Serve: Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy mozzarella sticks: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheese options: While mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses for different flavors.
• Baked or fried: For an extra crispy result, you can fry these sticks in hot oil for about 2-3 minutes instead of baking them.
• Herb seasoning: Add extra herbs like garlic powder, parsley, or basil to the breadcrumb mix to enhance the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover mozzarella sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake them in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for 2-3 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make these mozzarella sticks ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare and coat the mozzarella sticks ahead of time, then freeze them until you’re ready to bake or fry them.
2. Can I fry the mozzarella sticks instead of baking them?
   Yes, frying the sticks will give them a crispier texture. Heat oil in a pan and fry the sticks for 2-3 minutes, turning to brown evenly.
3. Can I use low-fat mozzarella for this recipe?
   Yes, but low-fat mozzarella may not melt as smoothly as full-fat mozzarella, resulting in less gooey cheese.
4. Can I freeze mozzarella sticks for later?
   Yes, after coating and freezing the sticks, you can store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy them.
5. What can I dip mozzarella sticks in besides marinara?
   You can try dipping them in ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even spicy sriracha mayo for a different flavor twist.
6. Can I make these gluten-free?
   Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make these mozzarella sticks suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
7. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking?
   Freezing the mozzarella sticks before baking helps the cheese hold its shape. Also, avoid overbaking them.
8. How can I make the breading extra crispy?
   For extra crunch, you can double coat the mozzarella sticks—dip them in the flour, then eggs, then breadcrumbs, and repeat the process.
9. Can I make the mozzarella sticks without eggs?
   Yes, you can substitute eggs with a mixture of milk or a dairy-free alternative. Some people use aquafaba (chickpea liquid) as a vegan egg substitute.
10. How do I know when the mozzarella sticks are done?
    The mozzarella sticks are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the cheese inside is fully melted and gooey.

Conclusion

These homemade Mozzarella Sticks are a deliciously simple snack or appetizer that everyone will love. With a crunchy golden exterior and gooey cheese center, they make the perfect treat for any gathering or a cozy night in. Whether baked or fried, paired with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

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