The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Introduction

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly fried mozzarella cheese stick—crisp on the outside, with a molten, gooey center that stretches into delicious strings. This beloved snack, often found on restaurant menus and in the freezer aisles, can easily be recreated at home with better ingredients and even better taste. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make your own mozzarella cheese sticks that will rival any you’ve had before.

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Key Takeaway Ingredient: Mozzarella Cheese

The cornerstone of this recipe is the mozzarella cheese. Opt for a 16 oz block of low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella. This type of cheese provides the best melting properties while maintaining the structure needed for frying without oozing out.

Directions

1. Gather Ingredients

• 16 oz low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese block
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
• Cooking spray for baking or 2 cups oil for frying

2. Set Up the Breading Station

• Prepare three bowls: one with flour mixed with garlic salt, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.

3. Prepare the Cheese Sticks

• Cut the mozzarella cheese into sticks, approximately ½ inch thick and 3 inches long.

4. Bread the Cheese Sticks

• Roll each cheese stick in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg wash. Recoat the stick in flour, dip in egg again, and finish by rolling it in breadcrumbs. Ensure the breadcrumbs adhere fully.

5. Freeze the Cheese Sticks

• Place the breaded cheese sticks on a tray lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least 45 minutes to prevent the cheese from oozing during frying.

6. Fry the Cheese Sticks

• Heat 2 cups of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the cheese sticks in small batches for 60-90 seconds, turning halfway through. Remove them once they are golden brown and crisp.

7. Drain and Serve

• Transfer the fried cheese sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

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Side Dish Ideas

Mozzarella cheese sticks are the perfect appetizer or snack. Pair them with these side dishes for a complete meal:

• Marinara Sauce: A classic dipping sauce that complements the cheesy goodness.
• Buttermilk Ranch: Adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the crispy cheese sticks.
• Spicy Aioli: For those who enjoy a kick, garlic aioli with a touch of sriracha is a great choice.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Freeze Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

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Conclusion

Creating your own mozzarella cheese sticks at home is not only rewarding but also ensures you’re using quality ingredients. The combination of a crispy exterior and gooey, melted cheese inside is sure to be a hit at any gathering. With this guide, you’re equipped to make cheese sticks that are better than any store-bought or restaurant version. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces and savor every cheesy bite!