Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Six golden breaded fried mozzarella sticks served with warm marinara and shaved Parmesan
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Ingredients
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Cheese
Breading station
For frying
Sauce & finishing
Method
Cheese prep & freezing
- 1
Trim and freeze
If using full-length mozzarella sticks, cut each into 6 pieces if needed so final count is six pieces. Place the mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for at least 30 minutes (preferably 1 hour). Freezing prevents excessive cheese melt during frying.
Breading station
- 2
Set up three bowls
Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. In a third shallow bowl combine the breadcrumbs, 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of the salt, and the black pepper; mix well.
- 3
Dredge and double-coat
Working with one frozen mozzarella stick at a time, dredge it in flour and shake off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip back into the bowl. Coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing breadcrumbs onto the surface. For best results, return the coated stick to the egg mixture briefly and then re-coat in breadcrumbs for a double coating. Place breaded sticks back on the parchment-lined tray and freeze for another 20–30 minutes to set the coating.
Frying
- 4
Heat oil
Pour oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or pot to a depth of about 1.5–2 inches (enough to nearly cover the sticks). Heat the oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping a small breadcrumb into the oil; it should sizzle and brown in about 30–45 seconds.
- 5
Fry in batches
Fry the breaded mozzarella sticks in small batches (2–3 at a time depending on pot size) for 45–75 seconds, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp. Do not overcook; the cheese will melt quickly once removed from the oil. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Lightly sprinkle each batch with the remaining 2 teaspoons of salt while hot, if desired.
Sauce & finishing
- 6
Warm marinara
Pour the marinara sauce into a small saucepan and warm over low heat until heated through (about 5–7 minutes), stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl for 1–2 minutes until hot.
- 7