Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Make Mozzarella Sticks Recipe in just 2h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Prep & Breading
Serving
Method
Prep & Breading
- 1
Cut the cheese
Chill the mozzarella block in the freezer for 20–30 minutes so it firms up (this helps prevent melting during frying). Remove and cut into 12 even sticks about 3/4 inch x 3/4 inch x 3 inches. Place on a parchment-lined tray and return to the fridge while you prepare the breading station.
- 2
Set up breading station
Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs with the milk until smooth. In a third shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper; mix thoroughly.
- 3
Coat the sticks (first pass)
Dredge each chilled mozzarella stick in cornstarch, shaking off excess. Then dip into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off, and press into the breadcrumb mixture so an even coating adheres. Place breaded sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
- 4
Freeze to set
After the first coating, freeze the breaded sticks on the baking sheet, uncovered, for at least 1 hour (or up to 3 hours). This step is essential to keep the cheese from leaking while frying.
- 5
Fry & Finish
- 6
Heat oil
Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to a depth of about 1.5 inches (approximately 3–4 cups depending on pan size). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) on a kitchen thermometer. If you don't have a thermometer, test with a small breadcrumb — it should sizzle and brown in about 30–40 seconds.
- 7
Fry the sticks
Working in small batches (3–4 sticks at a time to avoid crowding), gently lower frozen mozzarella sticks into the hot oil. Fry for 45–60 seconds, turning once, until golden brown and crisp. Do not over-fry; extended time will cause the cheese to leak.
- 8
Drain
Use a slotted spoon or spider to transfer fried sticks to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain and cool for 1–2 minutes. If the sticks begin to leak cheese, discard the leaky pieces.
- 9
Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, if using, and serve immediately with warmed marinara sauce or ranch for dipping.