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Crispy Mozzarella Sticks

Golden, crunchy homemade mozzarella sticks with a stretchy, molten cheese center. Foolproof recipe for the perfect party appetizer.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

Mozzarella Sticks
  • 12 sticks whole-milk, low-moisture mozzarella cheese approx. 1 oz each
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp water
  • 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 0.5 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Vegetable or canola oil for frying
For Serving
  • 1.5 cups marinara sauce warmed
  • Fresh parsley or basil chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Three shallow bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Deep fryer or heavy pot
  • Kitchen thermometer

Method
 

  1. Pat the mozzarella sticks completely dry with a paper towel.
  2. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt. In the second, whisk eggs with water. In the third, combine panko, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and oregano.
  3. Dredge one mozzarella stick in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with all sticks.
  4. Freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks, uncovered, for at least 2 hours or until completely solid.
  5. Heat 3 inches of oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 375°F (190°C).
  6. Fry frozen sticks in small batches for 1-2 minutes, turning occasionally, until deep golden brown and crispy.
  7. Remove sticks with a spider strainer or tongs and drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Let rest for 1-2 minutes.
  8. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately with warm marinara sauce.

Notes

A solid freeze is critical to prevent cheese leakage. Do not skip this step. For baking, cook frozen sticks on a wire rack at 425°F (220°C) for 8-10 minutes.