Crispy Panko-Crusted Mozzarella Sticks
Indulge in these Crispy Panko-Crusted Mozzarella Sticks that are perfect for game day, parties, or simply a snack attack! Made with gooey mozzarella string cheese, these sticks are coated in a flavorful blend of panko breadcrumbs and dried parsley for that perfect crunch. They are quickly fried to golden perfection and served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this simple yet delicious recipe that yields 32 irresistible sticks.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mozzarella String Cheese
16 pieces (Cut in half)
All-Purpose Flour
1/2 cup (None)
Whole Eggs
2 (Beaten)
Milk
3 tablespoons (None)
Panko Breadcrumbs
2 cups (None)
Dried Parsley Flakes
1 tablespoon (None)
Canola Oil
For Frying (None)
Marinara Sauce
For Dipping (None)
Instructions
1
Begin by slicing each mozzarella string cheese in half, resulting in 32 mozzarella sticks.
2
In a small bowl, add the flour. Set aside.
3
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
4
In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the dried parsley flakes evenly.
5
To coat the mozzarella sticks, take each piece and roll it in flour, making sure to cover all sides. Then, dip it into the egg and milk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
6
Next, place the stick into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is thoroughly covered. Gently press the crumbs onto the stick for an even coat, then transfer it to a tray or cookie sheet. Repeat this process for all mozzarella sticks.
7
Once all sticks are coated, place the tray in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes to flash freeze them. This step helps to keep the cheese from oozing out during frying.
8
After freezing, heat about 1 1/2 inches of canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot.
9
Carefully add mozzarella sticks to the hot oil, frying them in batches of 8 to avoid overcrowding. Monitor them closely and flip them halfway through to ensure even browning, cooking for about 1 to 2 minutes or until golden brown. Be cautious not to let the cheese bubble and leak out.
10
Once cooked, remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
11
Serve the crispy mozzarella sticks immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the yield of this recipe?
This recipe yields 32 crispy panko-crusted mozzarella sticks.
What kind of cheese is used?
The recipe uses 16 pieces of mozzarella string cheese.
How should I prepare the cheese?
Each mozzarella string cheese piece should be sliced in half to create 32 sticks.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 8 servings.
What is the first step in the coating process?
The first step is to roll each piece of cheese in all-purpose flour, making sure to cover all sides.
What ingredients make up the egg wash?
The egg wash is made by whisking together two whole eggs and three tablespoons of milk.
What is mixed with the panko breadcrumbs for flavor?
One tablespoon of dried parsley flakes is mixed evenly with the panko breadcrumbs.
How do I ensure the panko coating stays on?
Gently press the crumbs onto the stick for an even coat after dipping it in the egg mixture.
Where should I put the sticks once they are coated?
Transfer the coated mozzarella sticks to a tray or cookie sheet.
How long do the sticks need to be in the freezer?
They should be flash frozen for 20 to 30 minutes.
Why is the flash freezing step important?
Flash freezing helps to keep the cheese from oozing out during the frying process.
What type of oil is recommended for frying?
Canola oil is recommended for frying these mozzarella sticks.
How much oil should be used in the skillet?
You should heat about 1 1/2 inches of canola oil in a large skillet.
At what temperature should I fry the mozzarella sticks?
Heat the oil over medium heat until it is hot before adding the sticks.
How many sticks should I fry at one time?
Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches of 8 to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
Why shouldn't I fry all the sticks at once?
Frying in batches ensures even browning and prevents the oil temperature from dropping too low.
What is the approximate cooking time per batch?
The sticks take about 1 to 2 minutes to cook until they are golden brown.
Should I flip the mozzarella sticks while frying?
Yes, flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on all sides.
What color should the finished sticks be?
The sticks are done when they have reached a golden brown color.
What should I be cautious of during the frying process?
Be careful not to let the cheese bubble and leak out of the breading.
How do I remove excess oil after frying?
Place the cooked mozzarella sticks on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
When is the best time to serve these sticks?
Serve the crispy mozzarella sticks immediately while they are hot.
What is the recommended dipping sauce?
Warm marinara sauce is the suggested side for dipping.
Why use panko instead of regular breadcrumbs?
Panko breadcrumbs provide a superior, extra-crispy texture to the coating.
How much flour is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour.
Is this recipe suitable for a party?
Yes, it is perfect for game day, parties, or as a general snack.
What are some tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include appetizer, snack, party food, italian, and comfort food.
How many total ingredients are used?
There are 8 ingredients required for this recipe.
What kind of parsley is used in the breading?
The recipe uses dried parsley flakes.
How much panko breadcrumbs do I need?
You will need 2 cups of panko breadcrumbs.