Description
Homemade Mozzarella Sticks are a deliciously crispy appetizer featuring gooey melted mozzarella cheese coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust and deep-fried to golden perfection. This recipe includes a double coating technique and freezing step to prevent cheese leakage, resulting in perfectly crunchy sticks every time.
Ingredients
Mozzarella Sticks
- Mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese), quantity as desired
Coatings
- All-purpose flour, about 1 cup
- Eggs, 2 large, beaten
- Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, 1 ½ cups
- Parmesan cheese, ⅓ cup grated
- Garlic powder, 1 teaspoon
- Salt, ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper, ¼ teaspoon
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, about 4 cups or enough for deep frying
Instructions
- Prepare Your Coatings: Set up three shallow bowls – one with about 1 cup of all-purpose flour, one with 2 beaten large eggs, and one with a mixture of 1 ½ cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. These will form the breading layers for the mozzarella sticks.
- Coat the Mozzarella Sticks: Dip each mozzarella stick first into the flour, making sure it is lightly dusted all around. Then fully cover each stick by dipping into the beaten eggs, followed by rolling them in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs well.
- Double Dip for Maximum Crispness: Repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb coating on each stick to create a thicker crust that helps prevent cheese from leaking out and achieves extra crunch when fried.
- Chill Before Frying: Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes. Freezing firms up the cheese inside and helps keep the breading intact during frying.
- Fry Until Golden: Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan or fryer. Fry the frozen sticks in small batches for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Avoid overcrowding the oil to keep temperature consistent and ensure even frying.
- Drain and Serve Hot: Remove the fried mozzarella sticks with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve immediately to enjoy the optimal crispy exterior and melty cheesy interior.
Notes
- Freezing the coated sticks before frying is essential to prevent cheese from oozing out during cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain oil temperature and achieve even crispness.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked sticks.
- Serve with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Mozzarella sticks, fried cheese sticks, appetizer, homemade snacks, crispy cheese sticks, Italian seasoning, deep frying
