Indulge in a classic appetizer that never fails to please – Fried Mozzarella Cheese Sticks. With their crispy exterior and gooey, melted cheese center, these savory treats are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a movie night at home, or simply looking for a delicious snack, Fried Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are always a crowd-pleaser. Join us as we guide you through the simple steps to create this mouthwatering dish, complete with a flavorful marinara dipping sauce. Get ready to elevate your appetizer game and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food experience.
Ingredients:
- 12 Mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 Egg
- 2 tbsp Milk
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp Dried basil
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Tomatoes, for garnish
Instructions:
- Start by preparing the breading station. In one shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In another shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. In a third shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
- Remove the mozzarella string cheese sticks from their packaging and cut them in half crosswise to create shorter sticks.
- Working with one cheese stick at a time, dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the cheese stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the breaded cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for about 30 minutes. This will help firm up the breading and prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
- In the meantime, heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place a few frozen cheese sticks into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Using a slotted spoon or tongs, transfer the fried cheese sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining cheese sticks.
- Serve the Fried Mozzarella Cheese Sticks hot with marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and sliced tomatoes, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For an extra kick of flavor, try adding additional spices to the breadcrumb mixture, such as paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the cheese sticks in the oven instead of frying them. Simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss, for a unique twist on this classic appetizer.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications you can make to create a keto-friendly version of Fried Mozzarella Cheese Sticks:
- Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour for dredging the cheese sticks.
- Substitute crushed pork rinds or almond meal for breadcrumbs to coat the cheese sticks.
- Use full-fat milk or heavy cream instead of regular milk in the egg mixture.
- Fry the cheese sticks in avocado oil or coconut oil instead of vegetable oil to increase the healthy fat content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I prepare the cheese sticks in advance and fry them later? A: Yes, you can assemble the cheese sticks and freeze them for up to 24 hours before frying. Simply follow the instructions up to step 4, then transfer the frozen cheese sticks to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. When ready to fry, proceed with the frying instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to account for the frozen cheese sticks.
Q: Can I reheat leftover cheese sticks? A: While Fried Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are best enjoyed fresh, you can reheat leftovers in the oven to restore their crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the cheese sticks on a baking sheet, and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Q: Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone. Experiment with different cheese combinations to create your own unique flavor profile.
In conclusion, Fried Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are a delicious and satisfying appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a movie night at home, or simply craving a savory snack, these cheesy delights are sure to hit the spot. With their crispy golden exterior and gooey melted cheese center, they’re impossible to resist. Plus, with our keto and low-carb adaptations, you can enjoy all the flavor of this classic appetizer while staying true to your dietary goals. So gather your ingredients, fire up the fryer, and treat yourself to the irresistible goodness of Fried Mozzarella Cheese Sticks – you won’t be disappointed!
