Homemade Baked Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Nothing quite compares to the gooey, cheesy goodness of mozzarella sticks, especially when they are baked to crispy perfection right at home. This Homemade Baked Mozzarella Sticks Recipe is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a fun activity to whip up with friends or family. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be able to enjoy these cheesy delights in no time.
Imagine biting into a warm, crunchy exterior, only to be met with a stringy, melty center of mozzarella cheese. Pair these sticks with a rich marinara sauce, and you have an irresistible appetizer or snack perfect for any occasion.
Top Reasons to Make Homemade Baked Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
- Healthier Alternative: Baking instead of frying cuts down on excess oil and calories while still delivering a delicious result.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already, making it an easy choice for a last-minute snack.
- Customizable: Add your favorite spices or herbs to the breading for a personal twist.
- Family Fun: Involve kids or friends in the coating process for a fun cooking experience.
What You’ll Gather
- 6 String Cheese Sticks: Mozzarella works wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- 1 Cup All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your breading process.
- 3 Eggs: These will help the breading stick to the cheese.
- 2 Tablespoons Water: To thin out the egg mixture slightly.
- 1 Cup Seasoned Bread Crumbs: Adds flavor and texture to your coating.
- 1 Cup Panko Bread Crumbs: For that extra crunch!
- 2 Tablespoons Butter, Melted: This will help achieve a golden color and enhance the flavor.
- 1 Teaspoon Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning.
- ½ Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper: For a hint of spice.
- 1 Cup Marinara or Spaghetti Sauce: Warmed, for dipping.
Gear Checklist
- Baking Sheet: A large, flat surface to arrange your mozzarella sticks.
- Parchment Paper: Optional, but helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Bowl: For whisking the eggs and water together.
- Shallow Dishes: To hold your flour and breadcrumbs for easy coating.
- Oven: Preheat it to ensure even baking.
Homemade Baked Mozzarella Sticks Recipe, Made Easy
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Sticks
Start by unwrapping the string cheese sticks and placing them in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during baking.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper if using.
Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station
In three separate shallow dishes, place the all-purpose flour in one, whisk together the eggs and water in the second, and combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, salt, and pepper in the third.
Step 4: Coat the Cheese Sticks
Take a cheese stick from the freezer, dip it into the flour, covering it completely. Shake off any excess flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres. Repeat with all cheese sticks.
Step 5: Bake the Mozzarella Sticks
Place the coated mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. If you want them extra crispy, you can turn on the broiler for the last minute of baking, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, remove the mozzarella sticks from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve with warmed marinara or spaghetti sauce for dipping. Enjoy your Homemade Baked Mozzarella Sticks Recipe with friends and family!
Make It Diet-Friendly
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- Lower Carb: Use almond flour and crushed pork rinds for a low-carb version.
- Vegan: Use vegan cheese sticks, aquafaba instead of eggs, and plant-based breadcrumbs.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to your breadcrumb mixture for heat.
Missteps & Fixes
- Cheese Melting Out: Ensure cheese sticks are well chilled before breading and baking.
- Breadcrumbs Not Sticking: Make sure to coat the cheese thoroughly with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
- Too Soft or Soggy: Bake at the right temperature and make sure they are not overcrowded on the baking sheet.
- Not Crispy Enough: Broil for the last minute or increase the baking time slightly.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. For meal prep, you can assemble the mozzarella sticks ahead of time and freeze them. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reader Q&A
Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of string cheese?
While you can use shredded mozzarella, string cheese holds its shape better during baking, making it ideal for this recipe.
How can I make these spicy?
Add finely chopped jalapeños to the breadcrumb mixture or use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for an extra kick.
Can I bake these without breadcrumbs?
Breadcrumbs create the crispy coating that makes mozzarella sticks delicious. If you omit them, you’ll lose that texture, but you could try using crushed nuts or seeds for a different approach.
What’s the best way to dip these sticks?
A warm marinara or spaghetti sauce is traditional, but you can also try ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha sauce for a unique twist!
What to Make After This
Before You Go
If you’re looking for a delicious snack that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy, give this Homemade Baked Mozzarella Sticks Recipe a try. With its delightful crunch and melty center, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t forget to customize it to your liking, and share this recipe with friends and family for a fun, cheesy experience!
Homemade Baked Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Sticks - Unwrap the string cheese sticks and place them in the freezer for about 30 minutes.
- Step 2: Preheat the Oven - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper if using.
- Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station - In three shallow dishes, place the all-purpose flour in one, whisk together the eggs and water in the second, and combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, salt, and pepper in the third.
- Step 4: Coat the Cheese Sticks - Dip each cheese stick into the flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally roll it in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Step 5: Bake the Mozzarella Sticks - Place the coated sticks on the baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy! - Serve with warmed marinara or spaghetti sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicy version, use jalapeño cheese sticks.
- Try adding different spices to the breadcrumb mixture for variety.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
