Name: Brown Dog Pizzas BIG MOZZ STICKS Recipe
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 1 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 count mozzarella cheese sticks; 0.5 cups all-purpose flour; 2 count large eggs; 1 tbs water; 1 cups plain breadcrumbs (preferably fine or panko); 2 tbs grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning; 0.5 tsp garlic powder; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.25 tsp black pepper; 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying); 1 cups crushed tomatoes (canned); 1 tbs olive oil; 1 count small garlic clove, minced; 0.5 tsp dried oregano; 0.125 tsp red pepper flakes; 0.25 tsp salt; 0.25 tsp granulated sugar (optional, to balance acidity); 1 tsp fresh basil (optional), chopped

Method

Mozzarella sticks

Prepare cheese

If your mozzarella sticks are longer than 5 inches, cut to 5-inch lengths so you have four uniform sticks. Pat them dry with paper towel to remove excess moisture; this helps the coating adhere and reduces melting during frying.

Set up breading stations

Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In a second shallow bowl, whisk the eggs with 1 tablespoon water until smooth. In a third shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper.

First coat

Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, tapping off excess so there is a light, even coating.

Egg wash

Dip the floured stick into the egg wash, ensuring all sides are coated.

Roll the egg-coated stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so crumbs adhere. For an extra-secure coating, repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb step once more to form a double coating (recommended to minimize cheese leakage). After coating, place sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze uncovered for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours). Freezing helps the cheese hold its shape during frying.

Heat oil

Pour oil into a heavy-bottomed saucepan or pot to a depth of about 1 1/2 inches (about 2 cups). Heat over medium-high until oil reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil—if it browns in ~60 seconds, it's close.

Fry

Remove coated mozzarella sticks from the freezer. Working in a single layer (do not overcrowd), gently lower 1–2 sticks into the hot oil with a slotted spoon or spider. Fry for 45–60 seconds per side, turning once, until golden brown. Total fry time should be about 1.5–2 minutes. If the coating browns too quickly before cheese softens, lower the heat slightly.

Drain and rest

Use a slotted spoon to transfer fried sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Let rest 1–2 minutes (they will be extremely hot inside). Serve immediately with marinara.

Marinara dipping sauce

Warm the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté 30–45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and sugar (if using). Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer 6–8 minutes to blend flavors, stirring occasionally.

Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in chopped fresh basil if desired. Keep warm until ready to serve alongside the mozzarella sticks.

Big Mozz Sticks Recipe