Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Introduction

Mozzarella sticks are a beloved crispy snack that combines gooey melted cheese with a crunchy, flavorful crust. Perfect as an appetizer or party treat, they’re simple to make at home with just a few ingredients.

Ingredients

• 200g low moisture mozzarella
• 100g all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 120ml water
• 150g panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Oil for deep frying

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut the mozzarella into sticks about 1 cm thick and 6-8 cm long. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, mix the flour, salt, and water until you have a smooth, thick batter to coat the cheese sticks.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with dried oregano, dried basil, chili flakes (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
4. Step 4: Dip each mozzarella stick into the flour batter, then coat thoroughly with the seasoned panko. Repeat this process once more for a double coating to prevent melting out during frying.
5. Step 5: Place the coated sticks back on the parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 1 hour to firm up.
6. Step 6: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 180°C (350°F). Fry the frozen sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes or until golden and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the oil.
7. Step 7: Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with marinara sauce or your favorite dip.

Tips & Variations

• Use low moisture mozzarella for less water content, which helps prevent soggy sticks.
• Freezing the sticks well before frying is key to keeping cheese inside the coating.
• Add finely chopped fresh parsley to the breadcrumb mix for extra freshness.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.

Storage

Store any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. Reheat in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake mozzarella sticks instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them on a lined baking sheet at 220°C (425°F) for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through. They will be less oily but may not be as crispy as deep-fried.

What dipping sauces go well with mozzarella sticks?

Classic marinara sauce is a favorite, but ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo also complement the crispy cheese sticks wonderfully.

Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

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4.9 from 127 reviews

Crispy and melty mozzarella sticks coated with a flavorful seasoned panko breadcrumb crust. These golden fried appetizers are perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

• Author: Stella
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including freezing time)
• Yield: 12 mozzarella sticks 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

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Cheese

• 12 oz low moisture mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks

Breading

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cold water
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Frying

• Vegetable oil for deep frying (about 4 cups)

Instructions

1. Cut the cheese: Slice the mozzarella block into sticks approximately 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick to ensure even frying and perfect melting.
2. Prepare the flour paste: In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, and cold water to create a smooth batter that will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the cheese sticks.
3. Season the breadcrumbs: In another bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with dried oregano, dried basil, chili flakes (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper for a flavorful crispy coating.
4. Coat the sticks: Dip each mozzarella stick into the flour paste, then dredge in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Repeat this process a second time for a thick, crunchy crust.
5. Freeze the coated sticks: Arrange the coated cheese sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 2 hours to ensure they hold their shape during frying and prevent cheese from oozing out.
6. Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep fryer or heavy pot to a depth of at least 2 inches and heat to 350°F (175°C).
7. Deep fry until golden: Fry mozzarella sticks in batches for 1 to 2 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pot to maintain oil temperature.
8. Drain and serve: Remove sticks with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

• Freezing the sticks before frying is crucial to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking out.
• For best results, maintain the oil temperature around 350°F to achieve a crispy crust without absorbing excess oil.
• You can customize the seasoning in the breadcrumb mix to your taste by adding paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning.
• Use low moisture mozzarella for the best texture and melt without excessive oiliness.
• Serve immediately after frying for optimal crispiness.

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, fried cheese sticks, appetizer, snack, crispy mozzarella, panko breadcrumb