Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
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.
- 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
Scale
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
- 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
