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Homemade Mozzarella Sticks with Italian Seasoning and Parmesan Recipe

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4 from 3 reviews

Crispy and gooey homemade Mozzarella Sticks, perfectly breaded and fried to golden perfection. These cheesy appetizers are double-coated with seasoned breadcrumbs and parmesan, then frozen before frying to ensure a crispy exterior and melty cheese center. Ideal for serving with marinara sauce as a delicious snack or party appetizer.

Ingredients

Cheese

  • 1 pound block whole milk mozzarella cheese

Breading and Coating

  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 2 cups plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ cup grated parmesan

For Frying

  • Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 quarts)

Instructions

  1. Slice the cheese: Cut the 1 pound block of whole milk mozzarella cheese into 16 sticks of roughly equal size to ensure even cooking.
  2. Prepare egg wash: In a small bowl or shallow dish large enough to hold a cheese stick, whisk together 2 large eggs and ¼ cup milk until fully combined.
  3. Mix breadcrumb coating: In another small bowl, combine 2 cups plain breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ½ cup grated parmesan cheese. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
  4. First coat the sticks: Dip each mozzarella stick into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture until completely covered.
  5. Double coat for extra crispiness: Repeat the dipping process once more by dipping the coated cheese stick into the egg mixture again, followed by another layer of breadcrumbs. This double coating helps create a crunchy crust.
  6. Freeze the coated sticks: Arrange the double-breaded mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a freezer-safe plate, making sure they do not touch. Freeze for at least 1 hour to firm up the coating and prevent cheese leakage when frying.
  7. Heat the oil: When ready to cook, heat about 2 quarts of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, wide pot over medium heat to a temperature of 350-365°F (175-185°C).
  8. Fry in batches: Carefully place 3-4 mozzarella sticks into the hot oil at a time. Fry for 1-2 minutes or until they turn golden brown and the cheese is melted inside. Avoid overcrowding the pot to maintain oil temperature.
  9. Drain excess oil: Remove the cooked mozzarella sticks with a slotted spoon or tongs and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  10. Serve immediately: Keep the oil heated between batches if frying more sticks. Serve hot mozzarella sticks right away with your favorite marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Freezing the breaded sticks before frying helps keep the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking out.
  • Maintain consistent oil temperature between 350-365°F to ensure even cooking and prevent greasy mozzarella sticks.
  • You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs depending on your flavor preference, but using Italian seasoning enhances the taste.
  • For a lighter option, these mozzarella sticks can be baked, but frying yields the crispiest texture.
  • Make sure mozzarella sticks are completely coated during breading to avoid cheese leakage during frying.