Homemade Cheesy Mozzarella Sticks

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225g) mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks 8 ounces (225g) mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Marinara sauce, for serving Marinara sauce, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 22g, 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, and dried basil. Mix well.
2. 2.
   Place the flour in a separate shallow dish.
3. 3.
   Dip each mozzarella stick into the flour, coating it evenly.
4. 4.
   Next, dip the flour-coated mozzarella stick into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
5. 5.
   Roll the mozzarella stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
6. 6.
   Repeat steps 3-5 for each mozzarella stick.
7. 7.
   Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes.
8. 8.
   In a deep pot or skillet, heat vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F).
9. 9.
   Carefully drop the frozen mozzarella sticks into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
10. 10.
    Remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
11. 11.
    Serve the mozzarella sticks hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mozzarella cheese — Use low-moisture mozzarella for best results. Pat the cheese sticks dry before coating to ensure the breading adheres properly.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy coating, double dip the mozzarella sticks in the egg and breadcrumb mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
• To avoid the cheese from oozing out during frying, make sure the mozzarella sticks are well-frozen before frying.
• Serve the mozzarella sticks immediately after frying for the best texture and flavor.
• If you don't have marinara sauce, try serving the mozzarella sticks with ranch dressing or a spicy aioli.

Serving advice

Serve the homemade cheesy mozzarella sticks as an appetizer or snack. They are best enjoyed hot and crispy, straight out of the fryer.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden mozzarella sticks on a platter or wooden board. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.