Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Make Mozzarella Sticks Recipe in just 2h 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Cheese & Coating
Optional freeze & fry
Alternative oven-bake option
Method
Cheese & Coating
- 1
Cut cheese
Trim the mozzarella into uniform sticks about 3 inches long, 1/2 inch wide and 1/2 inch thick. You should get roughly 16–20 sticks from 1 lb. Pat dry with paper towels to remove surface moisture.
- 2
Prepare dredging stations
Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In a second shallow bowl whisk together the eggs and 2 tablespoons water until smooth. In a third shallow bowl combine both breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt and black pepper; mix well.
- 3
- 4
Breadcrumb coat
Press the egg-coated sticks firmly into the breadcrumb mixture so they are thoroughly coated. For a thicker crust, repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb step once more (double-coating). Place coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
- 5
Freeze to set
Freeze the coated sticks for at least 1 hour (ideally 90 minutes) until firm. This prevents the cheese from leaking during frying or baking.
Frying (traditional)
- 6
Heat oil
Pour oil into a deep heavy pot or a deep fryer to a depth of about 2–3 inches (about 3–4 cups depending on pot size). Heat to 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, heat until a small breadcrumb sizzles and browns in about 15–20 seconds.
- 7
Fry
Fry 4–5 frozen sticks at a time (do not crowd) for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon or spider and drain on a wire rack or paper towels. If needed, maintain oil between 350–360°F for consistent color and time.
- 8
Serve
Let the sticks rest 1–2 minutes (they will be very hot inside). Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Oven-Bake (lower-fat alternative)
- 9
Preheat and prepare sheet
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment and place a wire rack on top if available. Arrange frozen coated sticks in a single layer on the rack or sheet.
- 10
Spray and bake
Lightly spray the sticks with cooking spray. Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp. If they haven't browned enough, broil 30–60 seconds while watching closely to avoid burning.
- 11
Rest and serve
Remove from oven, let sit 1 minute, then serve with marinara sauce.
