This recipe for mozzarella sticks is perfect for any gathering or movie night. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these cheesy delights are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a snack, homemade mozzarella sticks are easier than you think to make and taste far better than store-bought versions.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of delicious mozzarella sticks in no time.
Crowd-Pleaser: These cheesy bites are always a hit at parties, making them a great choice for gatherings.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Perfectly Crispy: The double-dipping technique ensures a crunchy exterior that holds in all that melted cheese.
Serve with Marinara: Pairing these sticks with marinara sauce elevates the flavor and adds a touch of elegance.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the ingredients, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process, making it smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Deep pot
Mixing bowls (3)
Whisk or fork
Sheet pan
Parchment paper
Slotted spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Deep pot: Essential for frying, allowing you to achieve that perfectly golden brown color while keeping oil splatter contained.
Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for flour, egg mixture, and breadcrumbs helps organize the coating process efficiently.
Sheet pan: A lined sheet pan keeps your coated mozzarella sticks from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make these amazing mozzarella sticks:

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
2 eggs
2 teaspoons milk
oil for frying
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 cup marinara sauce

How to Make Mozzarella Sticks

Step 1: Prepare Your Coating Stations

Place the flour in a small bowl.
In another bowl, combine the Italian style breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper, stirring well.
In a third bowl, beat together the eggs and milk until fully mixed.

Step 2: Coat the Cheese Sticks

Dip each piece of cheese first into the flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Next, dip it into the egg mixture, followed by the breadcrumb mix.
Repeat by dipping back into the egg mixture and then again into the breadcrumbs for an extra layer of crunch.
Arrange each finished cheese stick on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Freeze Before Frying

Place the coated cheese sticks in the freezer for at least 2 hours or until they are frozen solid.

Step 4: Frying Time!

Heat about 3 inches of oil in a deep pot until it reaches 350 degrees F.
Carefully add a few cheese sticks at a time into the hot oil.
Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

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

Enjoy your homemade mozzarella sticks! They’re sure to be a hit whether you’re snacking while binge-watching your favorite show or entertaining guests at home!

How to Serve Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella sticks are a delightful appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Marinara Sauce

A classic choice, marinara sauce adds a tangy flavor that complements the cheesy goodness of mozzarella sticks.

Serve with Ranch Dressing

Creamy ranch dressing provides a cool contrast and enhances the overall taste.

Add a Spicy Kick with Sriracha

For those who love heat, drizzle sriracha over the mozzarella sticks or serve it on the side for dipping.

Offer a Side of Garlic Butter

Melted garlic butter is perfect for dipping, adding an aromatic flavor that will elevate your appetizer.

Create a Cheese Platter

Arrange mozzarella sticks alongside other cheeses and crackers for a fun cheese platter that’s perfect for gatherings.

How to Perfect Mozzarella Sticks

Achieving the perfect mozzarella sticks takes practice. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cheese sticks turn out crispy and delicious.

Freeze Before Frying: Freezing the coated cheese helps maintain its shape during frying and enhances the texture.
Temperature Matters: Ensure your oil is at 350 degrees F for optimal frying; too hot can burn them, while too cool can make them greasy.
Double Bread Coating: For extra crunch, double dip your mozzarella sticks in the egg and breadcrumbs before freezing.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve even cooking.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh string cheese and high-quality breadcrumbs make a noticeable difference in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Mozzarella Sticks

Complement your mozzarella sticks with these tasty side dishes. They not only pair well but also create a satisfying meal experience.

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread served fresh from the oven is a classic pairing that never disappoints.
Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad adds freshness and balances out the richness of fried cheese.
Buffalo Wings: Spicy buffalo wings bring excitement to your appetizer spread, perfect for game day!
Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies served with hummus or ranch dip provide a healthy contrast to cheesy treats.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned well offer another crunchy element on your plate.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and creaminess that pairs perfectly with mozzarella sticks.
French Fries: Classic fries are always a hit; consider serving them with different sauces for variety.
Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs make an excellent companion to your mozzarella sticks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mozzarella sticks at home can be fun, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Skipping the Freezing Step: Freezing the cheese sticks is essential. If you skip this, the cheese will melt too quickly while frying, leading to gooey mess instead of crispy sticks.
Not Using Enough Oil: Ensure you use enough oil in your pot. If the oil isn’t deep enough, the mozzarella sticks won’t cook evenly and may become soggy.
Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many cheese sticks at once can lower the oil temperature. This results in improperly cooked sticks that are greasy rather than crispy.
Inconsistent Coating: Make sure to coat the cheese evenly with flour and breadcrumbs. A well-coated mozzarella stick helps maintain its shape and texture during frying.
Ignoring Temperature: Always check your oil temperature before frying. Cooking at too low or too high a temperature will either leave your sticks raw or burn them.
Not Letting Them Drain: After frying, it’s crucial to let your mozzarella sticks drain on paper towels. This removes excess oil and ensures they stay crispy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container.
They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mozzarella Sticks

To freeze, place mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Freeze until solid and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Mozzarella Sticks

Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm; this may not keep them crispy.
Stovetop: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making mozzarella sticks, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different types of cheese for Mozzarella Sticks?

Yes, while traditional mozzarella is best, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.

How do I know when my Mozzarella Sticks are done frying?

Look for a golden-brown color on the outside; this usually takes about 2-3 minutes per batch at 350°F.

What should I serve with Mozzarella Sticks?

Marinara sauce is classic, but ranch dressing or garlic aioli also pairs well for dipping!

Can I make these Mozzarella Sticks ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up to freezing before cooking. Just fry them when you’re ready to enjoy!

Final Thoughts

These homemade mozzarella sticks are a delightful appetizer that brings joy to any gathering. Their versatility allows customization; try adding spices or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture. Enjoy a fun cooking experience and indulge in these cheesy delights!

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Mozzarella Sticks

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Author: Nora
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these homemade mozzarella sticks! Perfectly crispy on the outside and deliciously gooey on the inside, these cheesy delights are a crowd-pleaser for any gathering or movie night. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up these irresistible snacks in no time. Serve them alongside marinara sauce for a classic touch or get creative with your favorite dips. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a late-night treat, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

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
2 eggs
2 teaspoons milk
Oil for frying
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 cup marinara sauce

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Instructions

Set up three bowls: one with flour, another with beaten eggs mixed with milk, and the last with breadcrumbs seasoned with salt and pepper.
Dip each cheese stick first in flour, then in the egg mixture, followed by breadcrumbs. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb dip for extra crunch.
Freeze coated cheese sticks for at least 2 hours.
Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry frozen sticks in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
Drain on paper towels, sprinkle with parsley, and serve hot with marinara sauce.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Italian