Description
Learn how to make delicious homemade mozzarella sticks, a perfect crispy and gooey appetizer for any occasion. This recipe is easy to follow and results in a crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 250g mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying (or cooking spray for baking/air frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the mozzarella sticks: If using a block of mozzarella, cut it into 1-inch thick sticks. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- Set up a breading station: Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a third.
- Bread the mozzarella sticks: Dredge each mozzarella stick first in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Ensure each stick is well-coated.
- Chill the breaded sticks: Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during cooking.
- Cook the mozzarella sticks:
- For frying: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- For baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place breaded sticks on a baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- For air frying: Preheat air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Arrange sticks in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until golden brown and heated through.
- Serve immediately with your favorite marinara sauce or dipping sauce.
Notes
- Using a firm mozzarella block is recommended for best results.
- Ensure oil is at the correct temperature for frying to prevent sogginess.
- Adjust seasonings to your preference.
- Serve immediately for the best gooey texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying, Baking, or Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 sticks
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: mozzarella sticks, homemade mozzarella sticks, crispy mozzarella sticks, easy appetizer, fried mozzarella, baked mozzarella, air fryer mozzarella, cheesy snacks, party food, finger food