Crispy Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Who can resist the ooey, gooey delight of crispy mozzarella cheese sticks? Whether you’re looking for a tasty appetizer for a girl’s night in or a crowd-pleasing snack for the kids, these cheese sticks are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients:

• 1 package of mozzarella cheese sticks
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F.
• In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
• Dip each mozzarella stick into the beaten eggs, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
• Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 10g

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

A: While mozzarella is traditionally used for cheese sticks, you can certainly experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor.

• Q: Can I air fry these cheese sticks instead of baking them?

A: Yes, you can air fry the cheese sticks at 400°F for approximately 5-7 minutes for a quicker cooking method.

• Q: Can I make these cheese sticks ahead of time and freeze them?

A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked, coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for storage. Bake from frozen for slightly longer than the original recipe.

• Q: What other dipping sauces can I use besides marinara?

A: You can try ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or spicy chipotle mayo for a unique twist!

Helpful tips:

• For extra crispy cheese sticks, double coat them in the breadcrumb mixture.
• Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a bit of heat.
• Serve the cheese sticks with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and flavor.

Expert Secrets:

• Freezing the cheese sticks after coating will help them hold their shape better during baking.
• Make sure to preheat your oven properly to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
• Experiment with different seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture for customized flavors.