Mozzarella Sticks

This recipe for mozzarella sticks is a delightful treat that combines gooey cheese with crunchy breadcrumbs. Perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in, these crispy snacks are sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch that’s even better than what you’d find at your favorite restaurant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The steps are straightforward, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Great for Sharing: With 16 servings, these mozzarella sticks are ideal for gatherings and social events.
• Customizable Flavor: You can add your favorite spices or herbs to the breadcrumbs for a personal touch.
• Crispy Texture: Frying them ensures a golden brown crunch that contrasts beautifully with the melty cheese inside.
• Perfect Dipping Option: Serve them with marinara sauce for an extra burst of flavor that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing mozzarella sticks is simple when you have the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep pot or fryer: Ensures even cooking and allows for deep frying, which gives mozzarella sticks their signature texture.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for organizing your ingredients and keeping your coating process clean and efficient.

Ingredients

This recipe for mozzarella sticks requires a few basic ingredients that come together to create an irresistible snack.

For the Cheese Coating

• 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

For the Egg Mixture

• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons milk

For Frying and Serving

• Oil for frying
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 cup marinara sauce

How to Make Mozzarella Sticks

Step 1: Prepare the Coating Stations

1. Place the flour in a small bowl.
2. In a second bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
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 cheese first into the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated.
2. Next, dip it into the egg mixture.
3. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until evenly covered.
4. Repeat dipping in egg and breadcrumbs again for extra crispiness.
5. Place each finished cheese stick on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Freeze Before Frying

1. Freeze the coated cheese sticks for at least 2 hours or until frozen solid. This helps maintain shape during frying.

Step 4: Heat Oil and Fry

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

Step 5: Serve Your Mozzarella Sticks

1. Drain the fried cheese sticks on paper towels to remove excess oil. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot with marinara sauce on the side.

Enjoy your homemade mozzarella sticks! They make an excellent appetizer that’s sure to please any crowd.

How to Serve Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella sticks are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cheese sticks experience.

With Marinara Sauce

• Marinara sauce is a classic choice for dipping mozzarella sticks. Its rich tomato flavor complements the cheesy goodness perfectly.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a fun appetizer platter with mozzarella sticks, fresh vegetables, and assorted dips. This variety will please guests and offer something for everyone.

With Garlic Butter

• Drizzle melted garlic butter over the mozzarella sticks before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances the dish.

Topped with Parmesan

• Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the hot mozzarella sticks just before serving. This adds a salty, nutty flavor that pairs well with the mild cheese.

Spicy Dipping Sauce

• Offer a spicy dipping sauce, like sriracha or buffalo sauce, for those who enjoy a kick. This contrast can make the dish even more exciting.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Adding chopped fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, gives the mozzarella sticks a fresh touch. It also makes them look more appealing on the plate.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Mozzarella Sticks

To ensure your mozzarella sticks turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Freeze before frying: Freezing the cheese sticks solid helps prevent them from melting too quickly during frying.
• Use enough oil: Make sure there is enough oil in the pot to fully submerge the mozzarella sticks for even cooking.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keep the oil at 350 degrees F for optimal cooking; too hot will burn them while too cool will result in greasy sticks.
• Double coat for crunch: For extra crispy mozzarella sticks, double dip them in egg and breadcrumbs before freezing.
• Serve immediately: Mozzarella sticks are best enjoyed fresh and hot from the fryer for maximum flavor and texture.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add different spices to your breadcrumb mixture for unique flavors that suit your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Mozzarella Sticks

Serving side dishes alongside your mozzarella sticks can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and balances the richness of fried cheese.
2. Garlic Bread: Golden garlic bread is perfect for soaking up marinara sauce and complements cheesy dishes wonderfully.
3. Vegetable Platter: A colorful vegetable platter provides a refreshing crunch and healthy contrast to cheesy appetizers.
4. French Fries: Classic fries are always a hit and can be seasoned in various ways to match your mood.
5. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds tanginess and texture that contrasts nicely with crispy mozzarella sticks.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites can provide another layer of flavor variety at your gathering.
7. Bruschetta: Fresh bruschetta topped with tomatoes and basil offers a light and zesty addition to your appetizer spread.
8. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned well can be an excellent side dish that pairs perfectly with dips used for mozzarella sticks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mozzarella sticks might seem simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can ruin your dish. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Skipping the freezing step: Freezing the cheese sticks is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. If you skip this step, they may melt too quickly while frying.
• Not seasoning enough: Seasoning your breadcrumbs is essential. Plain breadcrumbs can result in bland mozzarella sticks. Add salt, pepper, or your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
• Overcrowding the fryer: Frying too many cheese sticks at once can lower the oil temperature. This leads to soggy mozzarella sticks instead of crispy ones. Fry in small batches for best results.
• Using low-quality cheese: The quality of cheese affects the final taste. Opt for good-quality string cheese to ensure your mozzarella sticks are delicious and gooey.
• Inconsistent coating: Ensure each piece of cheese is thoroughly coated with flour and breadcrumbs. Inconsistent coating can lead to uneven cooking and texture.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store mozzarella sticks in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

Freezing Mozzarella Sticks

• Freeze mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Mozzarella Sticks

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds, but this may make them chewy.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, turning frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Mozzarella Sticks?

Mozzarella sticks are breaded and fried pieces of mozzarella cheese that create a gooey, cheesy center with a crispy outer layer.

Can I bake Mozzarella Sticks instead of frying?

Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake mozzarella sticks. Just spray them lightly with oil and bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

How do I know when my Mozzarella Sticks are done?

They are ready when they turn golden brown and the cheese inside begins to ooze out slightly.

Can I make Mozzarella Sticks ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze them ahead of time, then fry or bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with Mozzarella Sticks?

Marinara sauce is a classic pairing, but you can also try ranch dressing or spicy aioli for dipping!

Final Thoughts

This recipe for mozzarella sticks is not only easy but incredibly versatile too! They make for a fantastic appetizer that everyone loves. Feel free to customize your recipe by adding spices or different cheeses. Enjoy making these delightful treats at home!