Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella sticks are a beloved snack or appetizer known for their gooey cheese interior and golden, crispy exterior. While they are often served with sauces like marinara or ranch, these mozzarella sticks are delicious enough to stand on their own. Perfectly crunchy and oozing with melted cheese, they make an ideal finger food for gatherings, game nights, or casual snacking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy on the outside and delightfully cheesy on the inside

• No need for dipping sauces – full of flavor on their own

• Quick and easy to prepare

• Perfect for both kids and adults

• Great as a snack, appetizer, or party platter addition

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)

• All-purpose flour

• Eggs

• Milk

• Italian-style breadcrumbs

• Panko breadcrumbs

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Dried oregano

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

1. Cut mozzarella sticks in half, if desired, for smaller portions. Freeze them for at least 30 minutes to prevent melting during frying.

2. In one bowl, mix flour with a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. In a second bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.

4. In a third bowl, combine Italian-style breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano.

5. Dredge each mozzarella stick in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for extra crispiness.

6. Freeze coated mozzarella sticks for another 30 minutes before frying.

7. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C).

8. Fry the mozzarella sticks in small batches for 1–2 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

9. Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Freezing time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Use different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique twist.

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix for a spicy version.

• Try gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

• Bake the sticks in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes as a lighter alternative to frying.

• Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for about 6–8 minutes until golden and crispy.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness—bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes or air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 4–5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can result in a soggy texture.

FAQs

How do I prevent mozzarella sticks from melting during frying?

Freezing the sticks before frying is essential to keep the cheese from leaking out. Always chill them for at least 30 minutes after breading.

Can I use regular mozzarella instead of string cheese?

Yes, but ensure it’s firm and cut into uniform sticks for even cooking.

What type of breadcrumbs work best?

A mix of Italian-style and panko breadcrumbs provides the best flavor and crunch.

Can I make mozzarella sticks ahead of time?

Yes, you can freeze them after breading and fry them directly from frozen when ready.

How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Double-coating (egg and breadcrumbs) helps the breading adhere and prevents it from slipping during frying.

Is it possible to make them without eggs?

You can substitute eggs with a mix of milk and flour or a commercial egg replacer.

Are mozzarella sticks good without sauces?

Absolutely. This recipe is seasoned to be flavorful on its own, with a crisp and savory coating that complements the cheese perfectly.

Can I use an air fryer for this recipe?

Yes, air frying is a healthier alternative and still yields a crispy result. Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes.

How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?

The oil should reach 350°F (175°C). You can test it by dropping in a breadcrumb—it should sizzle immediately.

Can I reheat them in the microwave?

While possible, microwaving may result in soggy mozzarella sticks. It’s better to reheat them in an oven or air fryer.

Conclusion

These mozzarella sticks without sauces are a crowd-pleasing snack that doesn’t need any accompaniments to shine. With their crunchy coating and molten cheese center, they deliver satisfying flavor and texture in every bite. Whether served as a party appetizer or a quick snack, this easy recipe is sure to impress without the need for any dips

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