Crispy Mozzarella Sticks: A Foolproof Recipe for Cheese Lovers
Crispy Mozzarella Sticks: A Foolproof Recipe for CheeseLovers
Who doesn’t love crispy, golden mozzarella sticks with a gooey, cheesy center? Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick snack, or satisfying a cheese craving, these homemade mozzarella sticks are the perfect treat. This recipe ensures a crunchy, flavorful coating with a melty inside—just like your favorite restaurant-style mozzarella sticks!
Why Make Mozzarella Sticks at Home?
Store-bought frozen mozzarella sticks are convenient, but nothing beats the taste of homemade ones. When you make them yourself, you can control the ingredients, avoid preservatives, and customize the seasoning to your liking. Plus, they taste incredibly fresh and have the perfect crunch when served straight from the fryer!
Ingredients (Makes 4 Servings, About 14 Mozzarella Sticks)
• 8 oz (225 g) mozzarella cheese (cut into sticks, about ½ x 3 inches each)
• ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (120 g) breadcrumbs (regular or panko for extra crunch)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 ½ cups (350 ml) vegetable oil (for frying)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Mozzarella
Cut the mozzarella into even-sized sticks (about ½ x 3 inches). Place them on a plate and freeze for 15 minutes. This prevents them from melting too quickly when frying.
2. Prepare the Breading Station
• In one bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
• In another bowl, beat the eggs.
• In a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
3. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks
• Dip each mozzarella stick into the flour mixture, coating it completely.
• Next, dip it into the egg wash, ensuring full coverage.
• Finally, roll it in breadcrumbs, pressing slightly so they stick well.
• For an extra crispy texture, repeat the egg + breadcrumb step.
• Freeze the coated mozzarella sticks for 5-10 minutes before frying.
4. Fry to Perfection
• Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry a few mozzarella sticks at a time for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
• Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Nutritional Information (Per 3 Mozzarella Sticks)
• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Protein: ~20 g
• Fat: ~25 g
• Carbs: ~12 g
Pro Tips for Perfect Mozzarella Sticks
• Double-coat for extra crunch and to prevent cheese from leaking out.
• Freeze before frying to ensure a crispy shell and gooey center.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature stable.
Can You Make Mozzarella Sticks in an Air Fryer?
Yes! To make a healthier version:
• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly spray mozzarella sticks with cooking spray.
• Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Final Thoughts
These crispy mozzarella sticks are the ultimate snack for cheese lovers! Whether you’re making them for a game night, a party, or just a cozy evening at home, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead—just freeze them after breading and fry whenever a craving strikes!
So, why not ditch the frozen store-bought version and make your own homemade mozzarella sticks? Your taste buds will thank you!
What’s your favorite dipping sauce for mozzarella sticks? Let us know in the comments!
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