Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

Introduction

Homemade mozzarella sticks are a delicious and fun snack that can satisfy any cheese lover’s cravings. These crispy treats are easy to make and combine the gooeyness of melted mozzarella with the crunchiness of a perfectly fried coating. Whether you’re hosting a game night, looking for a quick appetizer, or simply indulging in a late-night snack, homemade mozzarella sticks are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!

Why Make This Recipe

Making your own mozzarella sticks at home is a rewarding experience that guarantees fresh and flavorful results. You have total control over the ingredients, allowing you to skip preservatives or unwanted additives often found in store-bought versions. Plus, it’s a fun cooking project that you can enjoy with friends or family. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create cheesy, crunchy perfection that will impress anyone who tries them.

How to Make Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

To make delicious homemade mozzarella sticks, start by prepping your ingredients. First, you’ll need to crush the panko breadcrumbs and mix them with Italian seasoning, dried parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt in a shallow dish. Next, beat the eggs in a separate bowl and place flour in another shallow bowl. If you’re using a block of mozzarella cheese, cut it into 15 sticks. Dip each cheese stick into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally into the seasoned panko mixture, ensuring they are coated well. Place the coated sticks on a wire rack over a baking sheet and freeze them for at least an hour. Finally, fry the sticks in hot vegetable oil until golden brown. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy your delicious homemade snack!

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 cups plain Panko
• 1⁄2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1⁄2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1⁄4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1⁄4 teaspoon table salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 lb whole milk mozzarella block (or 15 whole milk string cheese)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Marinara sauce

Directions

1. Place panko crumbs in a Ziploc bag and crush until fine.
2. Pour crushed panko into a shallow dish, add Italian seasoning, parsley, garlic powder, pepper, and salt, and stir to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
4. Pour flour into another shallow bowl.
5. If using a mozzarella block, cut it into 15 sticks.
6. Dip each stick in flour, then in beaten egg, and finally in the panko mixture, coating well.
7. Place coated sticks on a wire rack over a baking sheet and freeze for at least one hour.
8. For frying, heat vegetable oil in a pan and fry until golden brown. Serve with marinara sauce.

How to Serve Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

Serving homemade mozzarella sticks is simple and straightforward. They are best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the fryer. Place the sticks on a plate and serve them alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs on top to enhance the flavor. For a fun twist, consider pairing them with different dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli. They make a perfect snack during movie nights, parties, or game days!

How to Store Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

If you have leftover mozzarella sticks, you can store them easily. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you’ve cooked a large batch and want to save some for later, consider freezing them. Let the cooked mozzarella sticks cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months, making them a great convenient snack option.

Tips to Make Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

1. Use Quality Cheese: Opt for whole milk mozzarella for the best flavor and melting properties.
2. Thorough Coating: Ensure that each stick is coated evenly in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs for a perfect crunch.
3. Freeze Before Frying: Freezing the sticks before frying helps them hold their shape and prevents the cheese from oozing out while cooking.
4. Healthier Option: For a healthier alternative, consider baking the mozzarella sticks at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Can You Freeze Homemade Mozzarella Sticks?

Yes, you can freeze homemade mozzarella sticks. To freeze them, coat the sticks and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, fry them directly from frozen without thawing for the best results.

How to Reheat Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

To reheat leftover mozzarella sticks, the oven is the best choice to maintain crispiness. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the coating soggy and the cheese chewy rather than gooey.

Variation

Feel free to add your twist to homemade mozzarella sticks! You can try stuffing them with a slice of pepperoni for a cheesy pizza flavor or adding chili flakes to the panko mixture for a spicy kick. Using different types of cheese or incorporating herbs can create unique flavors and textures, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use string cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use string cheese instead of a block of mozzarella cheese. Just skip the cutting step and coat the string cheese directly.

2. Can I bake mozzarella sticks instead of frying?
Yes, baking is an option for a healthier approach. Coat the mozzarella sticks, place them on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

3. How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of bread into the oil. If it bubbles and browns in about 60 seconds, the oil is ready for frying your mozzarella sticks.

Enjoy making and sharing your homemade mozzarella sticks! They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Print