Perfectly Golden Mozzarella Sticks Recipe with a Crunchy Panko Coating

Who can resist the allure of crispy, golden-brown mozzarella sticks with gooey, melted cheese inside? This Homemade Mozzarella Sticks recipe is a must-try for anyone who craves a satisfying, cheesy snack. With a crunchy panko coating and perfectly melted mozzarella, these sticks are the ultimate comfort food. Whether you're serving them at a party or enjoying them as a late-night treat, they're sure to be a hit.

Photo bydelicious grandma's recipes

I first discovered this gem of a recipe at the Delicious Grandma’s Recipes Facebook Group, where tried-and-true family recipes are shared and loved. It's so easy to make, and once you taste these crispy mozzarella sticks, you'll never want to go back to store-bought!

The Origins of Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella sticks are believed to have originated from the Italian practice of frying cheese, which dates back to the medieval period. The panko breading adds a delightful crunch, making it a perfect mix of Italian and American comfort food traditions. These sticks have become a beloved appetizer in the U.S., often served in restaurants with marinara sauce. Now, you can recreate that restaurant-style dish in the comfort of your home.

Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups (106 g) plain Panko (for extra crispiness)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (adds that Italian flavor)
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley (for a fresh herb touch)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (a hint of savory)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (to spice it up)
• ¼ teaspoon table salt (balances the flavors)
• 2 large eggs (for the egg wash)
• ½ cup (63 g) all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 1 lb whole milk mozzarella block or 15 whole milk string cheese (the star of the show)
• Vegetable oil for frying (ensures crispy, golden-brown sticks)
• Marinara sauce for dipping (make your own with this homemade marinara recipe)!

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Panko Mixture: Start by crushing the panko crumbs using a Ziploc bag and a rolling pin or mallet until they are finely ground. Combine the panko crumbs with Italian seasoning, parsley, garlic powder, pepper, and salt in a shallow dish. Stir to mix well.
2. Egg Wash & Flour Dredge: In a separate bowl, crack two large eggs and whisk until scrambled. Pour the all-purpose flour into another shallow dish. Set up your dredging station!
3. Prepare the Mozzarella: If you're using a block of mozzarella, cut it into 15 sticks. If using string cheese, skip this step.
4. Coating the Mozzarella Sticks: Dip each mozzarella stick in the flour first, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the egg wash, and finally roll it in the seasoned panko mixture until fully coated.
5. Freezing the Sticks: Place the breaded sticks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Transfer them to the freezer and chill for at least one hour. If chilling for longer than an hour, store them in an airtight container after the first hour.
6. Frying to Perfection: Heat 3 inches of vegetable oil in a saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks, two at a time, until golden brown (about 1 minute). Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Ensure the oil returns to temperature before frying the next batch.
7. Serving: Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy that cheesy, crispy goodness!

Recipe Tips:

• For the best results, make sure to freeze the mozzarella sticks before frying. This prevents the cheese from melting too quickly in the hot oil.
• Oven or Air Fryer Option: If you prefer a lighter version, bake the mozzarella sticks at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, or cook in the air fryer at the same temperature for 6-8 minutes until crispy and golden.
• Pairing Suggestions: Mozzarella sticks pair perfectly with marinara sauce, but you can also try them with ranch or garlic aioli for a twist. Serve alongside a fresh salad to balance the richness.

This easy homemade mozzarella sticks recipe is bound to become a family favorite, whether you’re making them for game day, a casual appetizer, or just a cheesy snack!

Did You Love This Recipe?

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