Description
Homemade Mozzarella Sticks with a crispy, golden breadcrumb coating and gooey, melty mozzarella inside, served with marinara sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces fresh mozzarella log
- 8 ounces plain panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 eggs, whisked
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mozzarella: Cut the fresh mozzarella log into 12-14 even pieces, depending on the size of the sticks you prefer.
- Make the Breading Station: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: 1) whisked eggs, 2) panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder, 3) a small amount of flour to lightly coat the mozzarella sticks before dipping in the eggs.
- Coat the Mozzarella Sticks: Lightly coat each mozzarella stick in flour, then dip it into the whisked eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating process.
- Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks: Arrange the breaded sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly while frying or baking.
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare to Cook: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
- Bake the Mozzarella Sticks: Once frozen, place the mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet without touching each other. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy, and the cheese is melty.
- Serve: Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Double breading (egg and breadcrumb coating twice) adds extra crunch.
- For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Freeze the mozzarella sticks for at least 30 minutes before cooking to help keep the cheese inside.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes freezing time)
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stick
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
