Looking for a snack that’s both crispy and gooey? These Irresistible Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are perfect for you! Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a tasty treat, this recipe will hit the spot. With a crunchy exterior and a melty cheese center, these cheese sticks are sure to be a favorite. Served with marinara sauce for dipping, they offer a delightful combination of flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions:
Prep the Cheese Sticks: Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks in half to make 24 pieces.
Season the Breadcrumbs: In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dredge the Cheese Sticks: Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off any excess.
Coat with Egg: Dip the floured mozzarella sticks into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll the egg-coated sticks in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Freeze the Cheese Sticks: Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 30 minutes.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line another baking sheet with parchment paper.
Bake: Arrange the frozen mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Serve: Serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping.
Serving Tips:
Serve Hot: Mozzarella cheese sticks are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re still hot and gooey. The crispy exterior and melted cheese create the ultimate snack experience.
Pair with Marinara Sauce: Classic marinara sauce complements the cheesy sticks perfectly. You can also offer a variety of dips such as ranch, garlic aioli, or even a spicy Sriracha mayo for different flavor options.
Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch, garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving. This adds a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to your dish.
Use a Warm Plate: To keep the cheese sticks warm while serving, place them on a pre-warmed plate or serving tray. This helps maintain their temperature and texture.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, allow the cheese sticks to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked cheese sticks. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat refrigerated cheese sticks, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. For frozen cheese sticks, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until hot and crispy.
Avoid Microwaving: For the best texture, avoid microwaving the cheese sticks, as this can make them soggy. Reheating in the oven helps restore their crispy exterior.
Related Recipes:
- Fried Cheese Stuffed Doritos Recipe
- Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
- Gooey Mozzarella Biscuit Bombs
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other types of cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses. However, keep in mind that different cheeses may melt and behave differently during baking. Mozzarella is preferred for its meltiness and stretchiness, which is ideal for cheese sticks.
Can I make these cheese sticks ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sticks in advance. After coating them, freeze them as instructed, and then bake when you’re ready to serve. You can also bake them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven to retain their crispy texture. Just be sure to store them properly to maintain their quality.
How do I ensure the cheese doesn’t leak out during baking?
Freezing the cheese sticks before baking is crucial. It helps the cheese hold its shape and prevents it from oozing out during the baking process. Additionally, ensure the cheese sticks are fully coated with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs to create a seal around the cheese.
Can I bake these cheese sticks instead of frying them?
Yes, this recipe is designed for baking to keep it healthier and less greasy. Baking at a high temperature ensures the cheese sticks become crispy without the need for frying. If you prefer a deeper fry, you can fry them in hot oil until golden brown, but baking is a convenient and less messy option.
Conclusion:
These Irresistible Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are the perfect combination of crispy and cheesy. They’re easy to make, delicious, and sure to be a hit with everyone. Serve them with marinara sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy these cheese sticks as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, and watch them disappear in no time!
📖 Recipe:
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Irresistible Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy crispy and gooey Irresistible Mozzarella Cheese Sticks, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. These baked cheese sticks feature a golden breadcrumb coating and melty mozzarella cheese, served with marinara sauce for dipping. Ideal for parties, game days, or as a delicious treat anytime!
Ingredients
12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- Prep the Cheese Sticks: Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks in half to make 24 pieces.
- Season the Breadcrumbs: In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge the Cheese Sticks: Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Coat with Egg: Dip the floured mozzarella sticks into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll the egg-coated sticks in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Freeze the Cheese Sticks: Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line another baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Bake: Arrange the frozen mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
Ensure the cheese sticks are fully coated to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking.
Freezing the cheese sticks before baking is essential for maintaining their shape and achieving a crispy texture.
For best results, serve the cheese sticks hot and freshly baked.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 250 kcal
