Description
Crispy Mozzarella Sticks
A cheesy, crispy snack that’s perfect for any party or movie night!
Ingredients
12 mozzarella sticks (string cheese)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Prepare the Coating:
In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Mozzarella:
Dip each mozzarella stick into the flour, then the eggs, and finally the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating. Repeat for a double coat to prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
Chill the Sticks:
Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a tray and freeze for at least 1 hour.
Fry to Perfection:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks in small batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve Hot:
Serve immediately with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dip. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
These crispy mozzarella sticks are the ultimate comfort snack, oozing with cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow this detailed guide. First, set up your three coating stations in a line: flour, beaten eggs, and the seasoned breadcrumb mix. Work with one mozzarella stick at a time. After the first full coating (flour, egg, breadcrumbs), repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a crucial second layer. This double coat is your best defense against cheese leaks. Place each finished stick on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once all are coated, transfer the sheet directly to the freezer. Ensure they freeze solid for at least 1 hour; this step cannot be rushed. When ready to fry, use a deep-fry thermometer to confirm the oil has reached 350°F. Fry only 3-4 sticks at a time to maintain oil temperature. Fry for 2-3 minutes until uniformly golden, then drain thoroughly on a wire rack over paper towels.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these mozzarella sticks immediately while the cheese is molten. Classic marinara sauce is always a winner, but consider offering a variety of dips like creamy ranch, spicy sriracha mayo, or a balsamic glaze. For a fresh contrast, serve with a simple side salad. They also make a fantastic topping for a gourmet burger or chopped into a Caesar salad.
How-to Summary
In summary: 1) Set up three coating bowls (flour, egg, seasoned crumbs). 2) Double-coat each cheese stick (flour, egg, crumbs, then egg and crumbs again). 3) Freeze solid for 1+ hours. 4) Fry at 350°F in small batches until golden. 5) Drain and serve hot with dipping sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes, for a lighter version. Arrange frozen sticks on a greased rack over a baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 425°F for 8-10 minutes. They will be less crispy but still delicious.
Can I make them ahead of time? Absolutely. You can coat and freeze the sticks for up to 3 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra 30-60 seconds if needed.
Why did my cheese leak out? This is usually due to insufficient freezing, a too-thin coating, or oil that is not hot enough. Ensure a double coat, freeze completely, and verify oil temperature.
What’s the best oil for frying? Use an oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. Avoid olive oil for deep-frying.
Can I use different cheese? String cheese works best for its shape and melt. Block mozzarella cut into sticks can work but may be wetter; dry it well first.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the freeze: This leads to total meltdown. The cheese must be frozen solid.
- Single coating: A single layer of breadcrumbs is too thin and will crack. The double coat is essential.
- Crowding the pan: Adding too many sticks at once drops the oil temperature, resulting in greasy, leaky sticks.
- Using warm cheese: Start with cold cheese straight from the fridge for easier handling.
- Not draining properly: Drain on a wire rack instead of just paper towels to keep the bottom crispy.
Conclusion
Homemade crispy mozzarella sticks are an irresistible treat that surpasses any frozen version. By following the key steps of double-coating and thorough freezing, you guarantee a perfect, gooey center with a crunchy exterior. Perfect for entertaining or a special snack, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time.