Homemade Fried Mozzarella Sticks
Indulge in crispy, gooey goodness with Homemade Fried Mozzarella Sticks. This recipe transforms ordinary mozzarella cheese sticks into golden-brown delights that are perfect for snacking or entertaining.
Coated in a flavorful blend of Italian-style breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, these sticks are fried to perfection for a crunchy exterior and melty interior. Ideal for any occasion, from casual gatherings to game-day parties, these homemade mozzarella sticks are sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.
How to make Homemade Fried Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients
1 1/2cups Italian-style dried breadcrumbs
1 1/3cups freshly grated Parmesan, divided
1teaspoon salt
2 16-ounce packages mozzarella cheese sticks
4 large eggs, beaten to blend
1 1/2cups vegetable oil
Instructions:
Step 1:
In a medium bowl, combine bread crumbs, 1 cup of Parmesan and salt.
Cut each mozzarella stick in half.
Step 1:
Beat eggs in a shallow bowl and dip the cheese sticks into the eggs to coat completely and allow the excess egg to drip back into the bowl.
Coat the cheese in the bread crumb mixture, patting to adhere and coat completely.
Repeat dipping the cheese sticks in the egg and bread crumb mixture to coat a second time.
Place the cheese sticks on a baking sheet, cover and freeze until frozen, about 2 hours.
Step 1:
Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
Working in batches, fry the cheese until golden brown, about 1 minute per side.
Transfer the fried cheese to plates.
Sprinkle with the remaining cheese and serve.
Notes:
Preparation: The recipe starts with combining Italian-style breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and salt in a bowl. This mixture adds a savory crunch to the mozzarella sticks when fried.
Cheese Preparation: Mozzarella sticks are halved to create manageable pieces for coating and frying.
Coating Process: The mozzarella sticks are coated twice: first with beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, and then with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. This double coating ensures a crispy outer layer when fried.
Freezing: After coating, the sticks are frozen for about 2 hours. Freezing helps them hold their shape and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
Frying: The mozzarella sticks are fried in vegetable oil over medium heat until golden brown, approximately 1 minute per side. Frying in batches ensures even cooking and maintains the oil temperature.
Presentation: Once fried, the sticks are transferred to plates and sprinkled with the remaining Parmesan cheese for an added burst of flavor before serving.
Serve Immediately: These mozzarella sticks are best served immediately while still hot and gooey inside, offering a satisfying contrast of crispy exterior and melted cheese.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 16 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 280 kcal | Total Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 75mg | Sodium: 560mg | Total Carbohydrates: 10g | Dietary Fiber: 1g | Sugars: 1g | Protein: 13g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use different types of breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
Can I bake these mozzarella sticks instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown.
How do I prevent the cheese from melting too quickly while frying?
Freezing the coated cheese sticks for at least 2 hours before frying helps to keep the cheese inside from melting too quickly.
What can I serve with mozzarella sticks?
They are commonly served with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for dipping.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread and freeze them up to a day in advance.
Fry them when ready to serve.
How do I know when the mozzarella sticks are done frying?
They are done when they are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and gooey.
About 1 minute per side in hot oil usually achieves this.
Can I reuse the frying oil?
Yes, you can strain and reuse the oil for frying other foods as long as it is not burnt or has an off smell.
What kind of mozzarella sticks should I use?
Use mozzarella cheese sticks specifically meant for frying, typically found in the dairy or frozen section of the grocery store.
Why do I need to coat the cheese sticks twice in egg and breadcrumbs?
Double coating ensures a thicker, crispier crust that helps to contain the melted cheese inside during frying.
How do I keep the breadcrumbs from falling off during frying?
Pat the breadcrumbs firmly onto the cheese sticks after each coating and ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to quickly seal the outer layer.