Easy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Mozzarella Sticks
01 -
12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
02 -
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
03 -
⅛ teaspoon salt
04 -
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
05 -
1 large egg
06 -
2 tablespoons milk
07 -
¾ cup plain panko bread crumbs
08 -
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan
09 -
½ teaspoon dried basil
10 -
½ teaspoon dried oregano
11 -
½ teaspoon dried parsley
12 -
½ teaspoon dried thyme
13 -
½ teaspoon garlic powder
14 -
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
15 -
Vegetable oil or canola oil for frying
→ Easy Small Batch Marinara Sauce
16 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
17 -
1-2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
18 -
8 ounces crushed tomatoes or 6 ounces tomato sauce
19 -
¼ teaspoon dried basil
20 -
¼ teaspoon dried oregano
21 -
Large pinch of salt
22 -
Pinch of crushed red pepper (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
02 -
In three shallow dishes: combine flour, salt, and pepper in Dish #1; whisk egg and milk in Dish #2; mix bread crumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, parsley, basil, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes in Dish #3.
03 -
Dredge each piece of string cheese in flour mixture, then dip in egg mixture, and finally coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to ensure it sticks.
04 -
Place coated cheese sticks on prepared baking sheet and transfer to the freezer for at least 1 hour.
05 -
Fill a large pot with about 2 inches of oil and heat over medium heat until a thermometer registers 350°F.
06 -
Working in batches of up to 4, fry cheese sticks for about 2 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
07 -
Sprinkle fried sticks with salt if desired and serve immediately with marinara sauce.
08 -
Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, add garlic, and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, basil, oregano, and salt. Simmer on medium-low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add red pepper flakes, simmer for another minute, and serve.
# Notes:
01 -
Mozzarella sticks can be breaded and frozen for up to 2 months before frying.
02 -
Use a thermometer to ensure oil stays at the correct temperature during frying.
03 -
Marinara sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.