Name: The Original Italian Pies MOZZARELLA STICKS Recipe
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 10 each whole milk mozzarella cheese stick; 1 cups all-purpose flour; 3 each large eggs; 2 tbs cold water; 2 cups plain breadcrumbs; 1 cups panko breadcrumbs; 0.25 cups grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning; 0.5 tsp garlic powder; 0.25 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp kosher salt; 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1 cups vegetable oil (for frying); 2 tsp cornstarch (optional, for dusting); 2 tbs olive oil; 0.25 cups yellow onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 14 oz crushed tomatoes (canned); 1 tbs tomato paste; 1 tsp dried basil; 0.5 tsp dried oregano; 0.5 tsp sugar (optional); 0.5 tsp kosher salt; 0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 each fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Method

Mozzarella sticks

1
Prepare the cheese
Unwrap the 10 mozzarella sticks. If they are the thick single-stick variety, cut each stick in half lengthwise or into 3/4–1-inch thick logs so you still have 10 equal pieces. Pat each piece dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Lightly dust each stick with cornstarch (optional) to help the flour adhere.
2
Set up breading stations
Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In a second shallow bowl, whisk the 3 eggs with 2 tablespoons cold water until uniform. In a third shallow bowl, combine the plain breadcrumbs, panko, grated Parmesan, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; mix well.
3
Bread the cheese
One at a time: dredge each cheese stick in flour, shaking off excess; dip into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off; then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating on all sides. For a stronger seal, repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb step for a double coating. Place breaded sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze for at least 30 minutes (recommended) to firm up the coating and prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
4
Heat oil
Pour about 1 to 1.5 cups vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or pot to create a 1–1.5 inch deep oil layer (enough for shallow frying). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you do not have a thermometer, test by dropping a few breadcrumbs—if they sizzle and brown slowly, the oil is ready.
5
Fry the sticks
Working in small batches (3–4 at a time), carefully lower frozen breaded sticks into the hot oil. Fry for 1.5–2.5 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown and crisp. Do not overcrowd the pan; maintain oil temperature close to 350°F. If cheese begins to ooze, reduce heat slightly. Use a slotted spoon or spider to transfer fried sticks to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain.
6
Keep warm and serve
If making multiple batches, keep finished sticks on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you finish frying so they stay warm and crisp. Serve immediately with the prepared marinara sauce on the side. Yield: 10 breaded mozzarella sticks.

Signature marinara sauce

7
Warm 2 tablespoons olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
8
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen flavor. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, sugar (if using), 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
9
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and let simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning for salt, pepper, or a pinch more sugar if acidity is high.
10
Remove from heat. Stir in torn fresh basil leaves if using. Transfer to a serving bowl or ramekin and keep warm until ready to serve with the mozzarella sticks.

Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Ingredients