Ditch the Drive-Thru, Make Restaurant-Quality Mozzarella Cheese Sticks at Home (They’re Easier Than You Think!)
Ingredients:
- 1 pound low-moisture mozzarella cheese block (part-skim works too!)
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch!)
- Cooking spray (for baking)
- Marinara sauce for dipping (because duh!)
Instructions:
- Get Cheesy: Cut your mozzarella into sticks about ½ inch thick and 3 inches long. You should end up with 20-24 cheesy soldiers ready for battle.
- The Breading Brigade: In separate bowls, whisk together the flour and garlic powder, beat the eggs, and prepare your breadcrumbs.
- Double Trouble (For Extra Crispy Goodness): This is the secret weapon! Dredge each cheese stick in the flour mixture, then take a dip in the egg bath. Now, for that double-decker effect, repeat the flour and egg dunk. Finally, roll those cheesy soldiers in the breadcrumbs, making sure they get a nice, even coat.
- Freeze Frame (Optional, But Recommended): For an extra crispy exterior and melty cheese center, place your breaded cheese sticks on a baking sheet, cover them with plastic wrap, and pop them in the freezer for at least 45 minutes (or up to 24 hours if you’re feeling extra prepared).
- The Grand Finale: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray. Bake your cheese sticks for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and melty.
- Dip It, Love It: While your cheese soldiers are on a mission to crispy perfection, warm up some marinara sauce for dipping.
- Devour and Dominate: Serve your piping hot, golden mozzarella cheese sticks with a side of marinara sauce and prepare to be showered with compliments (and maybe requests for seconds ;)).
Tips:
- Use a sharp knife to cut your cheese for clean, even sticks.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give your cheese sticks some space for even crisping.
- Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs for a spicy kick.
- Love a good variety? Try using different flavored breadcrumbs, like parmesan or garlic parmesan.
Enjoy these incredible homemade mozzarella cheese sticks, my American cheese lovers! You deserve it.