Mozzarella Sticks
The ultimate comfort food, Mozzarella Sticks are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Perfect for parties or a cozy movie night, these sticks are easy to make and utterly delicious. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for a snack everyone will love!
Equipment
- Sheet Pan
- Heavy Skillet
- Shallow Bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Candy thermometer
Ingredients
- 16 ounces string cheese
- 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
- 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl or plate, combine Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix them thoroughly with a fork until well blended. This mixture will be the star of your coating, so make sure to spread it evenly!
- Next, place all-purpose flour in another shallow bowl. This is where your cheese sticks will get their first layer of protection before the egg wash.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, salt, black pepper, and buttermilk. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the cheese. Whisk until everything is combined and smooth—no lumps here!
- Now, take each string cheese stick and dip it into the egg mixture. Make sure to coat it well. Then, roll it in the flour, making sure it’s covered completely. This step helps the egg adhere better to the cheese.
- Return the coated cheese stick back to the egg mixture for a second dip, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs gently into the cheese to ensure they stick. The more crumbs, the better!
- Once all your cheese sticks are coated, arrange them on a sheet pan. Place the pan in the freezer for about 20 to 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial as it helps the cheese stay in place while frying.
- Meanwhile, heat about 2 inches of oil in a heavy skillet to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature for perfect frying.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cheese sticks in batches. Fry them for about 2 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Be sure to turn them frequently to achieve an even color.
- Once they're perfectly fried, remove them from the oil and let them drain on a plate lined with a paper towel. This will help absorb any excess oil and keep them crispy.
- Serve your delicious Mozzarella Sticks immediately with your favorite dipping sauces. You won’t be able to resist!
Notes
Your Mozzarella Sticks can be a blank canvas for various twists. Here are some ideas to get you started!
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a hint of heat.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme in the breadcrumb coating.
- Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese, such as gouda or pepper jack, for a unique flavor.
- Extra Crunch: For an even crunchier texture, double-dip your cheese sticks in the egg mixture and breadcrumbs.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your sticks with marinara, ranch, or a spicy dipping sauce for added flavor.
- Freezing for Later: You can freeze un-fried sticks for a quick snack later. Just fry them straight from the freezer.