Mozzarella Stick Recipe
Make Mozzarella Stick 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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Cheese
Breading station
Coating reinforcement
Frying
Serving
Method
Cheese
- 1
Cutting and freezing
If using a block of mozzarella, cut into 10 sticks roughly 3/4 inch x 3/4 inch x 3-4 inches. Pat sticks dry with paper towel. Arrange sticks in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, at least 1 hour (or up to 2 hours). Freezing prevents cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
Breading station
- 2
Prepare dry mix
In a shallow bowl or plate combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly so seasonings are evenly distributed.
- 3
Prepare flour and egg wash
Place the flour in a separate shallow bowl. In another bowl whisk the eggs with the milk until combined. If using cornstarch, mix it with the flour to help the coating adhere better.
- 4
First coat - flour
Working with one frozen stick at a time, toss the frozen mozzarella in the flour (or cornstarch + flour) until fully coated, shaking off excess.
- 5
- 6
Third coat - breadcrumbs
Press the egg-coated stick firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides. For a thicker, more secure crust, repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb step a second time. Place the breaded sticks back on the parchment-lined tray and return to the freezer for at least 30 minutes (preferably 1 hour) to set the coating.
Frying
- 7
Heat oil
Pour oil into a heavy, deep skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 1 1/2 to 2 inches. Heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping one small breadcrumb into the oil—if it sizzles and browns slowly, it's ready.
- 8
Fry the sticks
Fry 3–4 breaded mozzarella sticks at a time (do not overcrowd) for 45–60 seconds per side, turning once, until golden brown. Keep the oil temperature at or close to 350°F; adjust heat as needed. The total fry time is short—avoid overcooking to prevent the cheese from leaking out.
- 9
Drain
Use a slotted spoon or spider to transfer the fried sticks to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or to paper towels to drain. Let rest 1–2 minutes; this helps the crust set and cools slightly so they hold shape.
Serving
- 10
Serve immediately while hot with warmed marinara sauce for dipping. Mozzarella sticks are best eaten right away for a hot, melty center and crisp exterior.