Do you also like to eat mozzarella cheese sticks, then we tell you all the step by step process of homemade mozzarella cheese stick recipe. If you are new in your kitchen, then you can go with a right strategy. If you already know how it is made, then it is very beneficial for you to get more information.
This is very special for the United States audience, in which all the method is told from cooking to eating and how to serve the food. And how to freeze cheese sticks at home, everything is told.
Table of Contents
How to Make Mozzarella Cheese Sticks (Step by Step)
Unique Recipe, Crispy and Cheesy Too
Have you also dipped golden fried mozzarella in hot marinara sauce, and felt its satisfying taste. Then you must know why mozzarella cheese sticks are one of the most favorite appetizers in America which is liked by many people.
You can make mozzarella cheese sticks anytime, whether you’re hosting a game day party, planning a family dinner or just craving a cheesy snack, this irresistibly crispy mozzarella cheese recipe is sure to become a favorite at any dinner party, with the family or the kids.
In this guide, we’ll show you everything you need to make mozzarella cheese sticks from scratch that are perfectly crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.
We’ll cover everything you need to make cheese sticks at home, cooking tips, variations and serving ideas, and believe me, they taste so much better than the restaurant or store-bought versions.
Homemade tastes so much better.
Introduction
We will cover the things to consider while making this stick recipe.
- Why you will love this Mozzarella Stick Recipe
- Ingredients required
- Equipment
- Step by step instructions
- Oven baking option and air fire
- Side pairings and dipping sauces explained
- Pro tips for best results
- How to store and reheat
- Some common mistakes to avoid
- Mozzarella Stick FAQ
- Final thoughts.
Why you will love this Mozzarella Cheese Stick Recipe
Crispy and perfect crunch: Panko breadcrumbs give it the perfect crispiness.
Cheesy: Melted mozzarella is gooey and stringy and almost identical to your favorite restaurant version.
Freezer: You can prepare and refrigerate these for your next day snack.
Kid friendly snacks: Great for parties, foodies or lunch boxes.
Budget Friendly: Much cheaper than store-bought frozen mozzarella sticks, and full of flavor.
Ingredients: To make Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
To make the best mozzarella cheese sticks at home, you will need a few simple ingredients that are easily available at any US grocery store.
Cheese:
12 sticks mozzarella string cheese (whole milk string cheese is great)
For the breading
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried celery
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional additional flavorings: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For frying
For extra flavor, canola oil or vegetable oil (For deep frying)
Dipping:
- Ranch dressing or hot Mariana sauce
Needed Items and Equipment
- Kitchen scissors or sharp knife
- Tray or large plate
- 3 shallow bowls for dressing station
- Deep skillet or deep fryer
- Parchment paper
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Paper towels
How to Make Mozzarella Cheese Sticks (Start-) Step by step)
Step 1: Shred the cheese if needed
If you use full-sized mozzarella sticks, cut each half in half so that they are separated into smaller pieces. Note that you will only get 24 pieces out of 12 sticks.
Tip: Use whole milk mozzarella to ensure it melts best and tastes the best, making for the most crispy fried mozzarella sticks.
Step 2: Set up the breading station
Use three shallow bowls:
- Egg bowl: Whisk the eggs until frothy.
- Flour bowl: Add all-purpose flour.
- Breadcrumb bowl: Whisk together the panko, Italian breadcrumbs, salt, spices, pepper, and Parmesan.
Step 3: Bread the Mozzarella Sticks
This is a double dip process to avoid the cheese from leaking out when you fry.
- Dip the mozzarella sticks in the egg and coat them well on all sides.
- Now dip them in the egg bowl and coat well.
- Then roll them in the breadcrumb mixture and press gently to ensure they stick well.
- Repeat: Dip them back in the egg and dip them in the breadcrumbs for a second coating.
Now place the breaded sticks on a tray covered with parchment paper.
Step 4: Refrigerate before frying
Refrigerate the tray for at least 1 hour or if not required, keep it in the freezer overnight.
Note: Refrigeration is very important as it prevents the cheese from leaking out while defrosting.
Step 5: Heating the Oil
In a heavy-bottomed pan or deep fryer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there is enough oil to cover at least 2 inches of surface. This will allow you to fry easily.
Step 6: Fry the Mozzarella Sticks
To fry these in batches, carefully drop 5 to 6 frozen sticks into the hot oil to ensure even stirring and fry for 1.5 to 2 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove them using a slotted spoon and then pat dry using paper towels.
Be careful not to overcrowd the pan as this can lower the temperature of the oil and cause the breading to become soggy.
Air Fryer Mozzarella Cheese Sticks for a Healthier Option
Here are a few tips on how you can make air fryer mozzarella.
Instructions: Follow the same steps as breading and freezing.
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
- Be sure to lightly spray olive oil or cooking spray on the frozen cheese sticks.
- Air fry for 7 to 9 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
Note That- Air fried sticks are not as bubbly as deep fried sticks, but they are lower in calories and fat.
Oven Baked Mozzarella Sticks Without Frying:
- Preheat your oven to 400° Fahrenheit (204° Celsius).
- Place frozen mozzarella sticks on a foil-lined baking sheet and spray with oil.
- Now lightly spray the top of the stick with oil.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then flip in the middle so that both sides are golden brown. Be careful not to over bake as over baking will melt the cheese.
What can you serve with Mozzarella Cheese Sticks Do you want to serve crispy mozzarella sticks with:
- Spicy Arrabiata Sauce
- Classic Mariana Sauce
- Buffalo Sauce
- Garlic Aioli or Range Dip
- Alfredo Sauce or Poison Sauce
Pair it with:-
- Chicken Wings
- Mini Sliders
- French Fries
- And have a soup or salad to have a balanced meal.
Some tips for the perfect mozzarella cheese stick:
- Always refrigerate it properly. The longer you refrigerate it, the better it is. And the chances of a frozen stick leaking are very low.
- Using a double bed ensures a crust and keeps the cheese inside, not spilling out.
- Keep an eye on the oil temperature. Maintain it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer to do this.
- Don’t skip the panko. It gives a great crispness and nice texture. It adds flavor.
- Use whole milk cheese and it melts much better than the low-fat version.
Storing/Reheating:
Leftovers:
Cold sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for two to three days.
Freezing:
Uncooked sticks can be breaded and refrigerated for up to 2 months.
To reheat:
- Air fryer: Heat at 375°F for 5 minutes.
- Bake in the oven at 375°F for 7 to 8 minutes.
- Microwaving is not efficient but it does make the bread soggy.
Common mistakes to avoid when making the best mozzarella sticks:
- Never freeze cheese as it will cause the cheese to break.
- Using steamed water: It will not melt properly.
- Overcrowding the fryer: Overcrowding lowers the temperature of the oil, causing sticky foods.
- Don’t season the breadcrumbs: Not seasoning them will make them taste bland.
- Not double coating: Thin coatings don’t last long enough to cook.
- Be careful not to double coat: Thin coatings don’t last long.
- Be careful not to double coat.
Asked FAQ?
Can I use shredded mozzarella?
No. Shredded cheese melts quickly making it very difficult to coat evenly. For the best results, use string cheese sticks.
Can I make this gluten free?
Yes, use gluten free flour and gluten free breadcrumbs.
What oil to use for frying, or what oil is best?
Use oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, peanut or canola.
Can I use another type of cheese?
Mozzarella is traditional but experiment with –
- Pepper jack
- Cheddar
- Colby jack
- Make sure it is firm and holds the shape of the stick.
Can I make crispy mozzarella sticks in advance?
Yes, you can. Bread and refrigerate until ready to cook. There is no need to thaw before frying or refrigerating.
Nutritional Value (per 2 sticks)
- 200–250 calories
- 14 g – carbs
- 14 g – fat
- 8 g – protein
- 1 g – fiber
- 300 Miligram sodium
Final Thoughts
Homemade mozzarella cheese sticks are a crispy, cheesy, dessert that is sure to become a favorite. They can be made in your own kitchen anytime, whether you bake or air fry them.
This easy mozzarella stick recipe produces delicious, restaurant-quality results, but homemade cheese sticks are even more delicious.
With the right ingredients, some time in the freezer and some great tips, you can make a great snack or appetizer. Which is 100% better and awesome than any kind of cheese frozen in a bag, so let’s grab your cheese, turn on your fryer and start making crispy mozzarella sticks now.