Better-than-Storebought Mozzarella Sticks
If you’ve ever craved the irresistible crunch and gooey goodness of mozzarella sticks but found yourself dissatisfied with the store-bought versions filled with unhealthy additives and preservatives, then this recipe is your answer. These homemade mozzarella sticks are not only simple to prepare but also incredibly delicious, ensuring that you’ll never reach for those frozen varieties again. Pair them with my delightful Angie’s Bella Marinara sauce, where the spices are given a little extra oomph, or enjoy them with a creamy ranch-style dip for an extra layer of flavor. Feel free to customize the herbs in the breading to suit your taste preferences, but I highly recommend sticking to this delightful combination for the ultimate pairing with the marinara sauce.
Recipe Details
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 minutes | 10 minutes | 35 minutes | Lunch/Snacks |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 521.5 |
| Total Fat | 18.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 160.2 mg |
| Sodium | 937.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 55.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g |
| Sugars | 3.8 g |
| Protein | 31.5 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 6 | Mozzarella string cheese |
| 1 | Egg |
| 2 | Water |
| ¾ | Dried oregano |
| ¼ | Dried basil |
| 1 | Flour |
| 1/3 | Cornstarch |
| 2 | Salt |
| 1 | Black pepper |
| (Additional herbs optional) |
Instructions
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Begin your culinary adventure by taking a small bowl and combining the egg and water, whisking them together until well mixed and homogenous. This mixture will act as your binding agent, ensuring the breading adheres perfectly to the mozzarella sticks.
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In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with garlic salt, oregano, and basil. The inclusion of these herbs will provide an aromatic and savory crust that complements the creamy mozzarella, elevating the overall flavor profile of the dish.
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In a third bowl, combine the flour and cornstarch. This dry mix will create a crunchy outer layer that contributes to the delightful texture of your mozzarella sticks.
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Now, it’s time to heat the oil. In a large heavy saucepan, pour in enough oil to allow for deep frying and heat it to a sizzling 375 degrees Fahrenheit. The right oil temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect golden brown exterior while keeping the cheese inside melty and gooey.
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Once the oil is ready, take each mozzarella stick and moisten it in the egg mixture, ensuring that it is fully coated. Then, dip each stick into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere properly. Finally, roll the coated mozzarella stick in the flour and cornstarch mixture, creating a thick and crispy layer of coating.
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Repeat this three-step process for all mozzarella sticks. Yes, it can get a bit messy, but don’t let the mess discourage you; trust me when I say that the end result is absolutely worth it!
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With your breaded mozzarella sticks ready, carefully place them into the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd the pan—about four at a time is perfect. This allows each stick to fry evenly, achieving that lovely crispness.
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Fry them until they turn a beautiful golden brown, which should take about 30 seconds, but keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
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Once perfectly fried, use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil. Allow them to drain on a plate lined with paper towels, soaking up any excess oil.
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Serve your better-than-storebought mozzarella sticks hot and crispy alongside your favorite dipping sauces, and enjoy the delightful contrast of the crunchy exterior and melty, cheesy interior.
These mozzarella sticks are a fantastic addition to your snack repertoire, perfect for sharing with friends and family or indulging in during a cozy movie night at home. With their delectable taste and satisfying texture, you’ll find yourself making these time and time again, all while feeling good about the wholesome ingredients you’re using. Enjoy!
