What type of mozzarella do you use for mozzarella sticks?

Mozzarella comes in many forms, but not every type is appropriate for making your favorite mozzarella sticks recipe. Skip fresh mozzarella, which is too soft and watery. Instead, you want low-moisture mozzarella, the gooey cheese you know and love from your favorite pizza, cheese sticks, and more. To make it even easier, I like to use mozzarella string cheese sticks, which are the perfect shape and size. Just unwrap each one and place the piece of cheese in the flour, then the egg mixture, then the breadcrumbs. Easy!

Are baked mozzarella sticks healthier?

Yes! Deep fried cheese sticks are not exactly a health food, particularly from all the excess oil (and calories) you consume from the deep drying process. These baked mozzarella sticks are lower in calories since they aren't fried, and you can use low-fat mozzarella to reduce the calorie content even further. They're a great alternative if you have a cheese stick craving and want to satisfy it without exceeding your daily calorie goal!

Can you bake homemade mozzarella sticks in the air fryer?

Yes! Air frying is a great way to make homemade mozzarella sticks. Follow all of the instructions as described in the recipe card, then bake them in a preheated air fryer. Be sure to arrange them in a single layer, and turn halfway through to crisp up evenly. Perfect for small batches!

Baked Mozzarella Sticks

Description

These Baked Mozzarella Sticks are a cheesy appetizer that’s crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Made with just a few pantry staples and mozzarella string cheese, they’re baked instead of fried for a lighter twist on the classic. A coating of seasoned breadcrumbs ensures every bite is perfectly golden and full of flavor. Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping, and watch them disappear in no time!

Ingredients

12 mozzarella string cheeses
1/2 cup flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1 cup marinara sauce or pizza sauce (for dipping)

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Instructions

Take each mozzarella string cheese and cut it in half to create 2 pieces that are smaller in length. Set aside.
Set up three shallow bowls for the breading. In the first bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper. In the second, add the eggs. In the third, combine panko, parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, and parsley.
Begin by dredging the halved mozzarella sticks in the flour, then move to the egg and coat thoroughly on all sides. Lastly, add the mozzarella sticks, a few at a time, to the panko breadcrumb mixture and toss to coat on all sides.
Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (to prevent the cheese from sticking to the tray). Place in freezer for at least 2 hours until hard.
Preheat the oven to 400 F and place the rack in lower third of oven. Bake the frozen mozzarella sticks for 8-10 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs become golden brown. Watch carefully, though, as the cheese will begin melting if left in too long!
Serve warm with marinara or pizza sauce.

Notes

How to store: Store any leftover cheese sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To absorb extra moisture, consider lining the container with paper towels.

How to reheat: Leftover mozzarella sticks can be reheated, but the cheese will not become stretchy and stringy again. For the best texture, place cheese sticks in a toaster oven or air fryer and bake at 400 F for a few minutes until warmed through and the breadcrumb coating is nice and crisp.

How to freeze: If you want to freeze your cheese sticks, it's best to freeze them before baking. Just let them freeze on a large baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe ziploc bag. Bake directly from frozen and serve!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Freezing Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American