Mozzarella sticks are a universally loved snack that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. Whether it’s game day, movie night, or just a midday snack, mozzarella sticks are the perfect indulgence. But what makes a good mozzarella stick? It’s all about the crispy coating and gooey, melted cheese on the inside. In this article, we’ll be discussing how to make mozzarella sticks in the oven, to achieve the perfect combination of texture and flavor.
Before we delve into the recipe itself, it’s important to understand the science behind mozzarella sticks and what makes them so irresistible. The key to a good mozzarella stick is in the cheese. You’ll want to use low-moisture mozzarella cheese to ensure that it doesn’t become too watery when melted. Additionally, the breadcrumb coating is crucial to the overall texture of the mozzarella stick. You’ll want to use a combination of Panko breadcrumbs and regular breadcrumbs to achieve a balance of crunch and flavor.
When selecting your mozzarella cheese for this recipe, it’s important to choose a block that is firm and has minimal moisture. Once you’ve selected your cheese, it’s time to clean it. Start by trimming off the ends of the block, then slice the cheese into sticks or spears that are approximately ½ inch thick, and 3-4 inches long.
To prepare the breadcrumb coating for the mozzarella sticks, start by mixing ½ cup of Panko breadcrumbs and ½ cup of regular breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. In another dish, whisk together 2 eggs until they are well beaten. Finally, in a separate dish, combine ¼ cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder.
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s go over some helpful tips to make the perfect mozzarella sticks:
Always use low-moisture mozzarella cheese
Use a combination of Panko and regular breadcrumbs for optimal texture
Chill the mozzarella sticks for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent them from melting too quickly
Be sure to evenly coat the cheese sticks with the flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixture
Now that we’ve covered the preparation process and some helpful tips, it’s time to start cooking. Here is a simple and delicious recipe for making mozzarella sticks in the oven:
1 block of low-moisture mozzarella cheese
½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
½ cup regular breadcrumbs
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 eggs, beaten
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Cut your block of mozzarella cheese into sticks or spears that are approximately ½ inch thick and 3-4 inches long.
In a small dish, mix together ¼ cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder.
In a separate dish, beat 2 eggs until well mixed.
In a third dish, mix together ½ cup of Panko breadcrumbs and ½ cup of regular breadcrumbs.
Take each mozzarella stick and coat it in the flour mixture, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each stick is evenly coated.
Place the coated mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet and put them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow them to chill.
Once chilled, bake the mozzarella sticks in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
It’s important to know how to properly check for doneness when making mozzarella sticks. Overcooking will result in burnt breadcrumbs and melted cheese leakage, while undercooking will leave the inside cheese cold and not fully melted. The perfect mozzarella stick should have a crispy golden brown exterior that crunches, and the cheese should be melted and stretchy. To check for doneness, gently press the outside of the mozzarella stick. If it’s crispy and the cheese looks melty, then it’s ready!
Mozzarella sticks can be customized in a variety of ways to suit your preferences. For a healthier option, try baking the sticks instead of frying them. You can also use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to experiment with different flavors. Additionally, try adding your own seasoning to the breadcrumb coating for added flavor.
Mozzarella sticks are a classic snack that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. By using a mixture of Panko and regular breadcrumbs, low-moisture mozzarella cheese, and following the recipe and tips mentioned above, you can make the perfect mozzarella sticks in the oven. Remember to check for doneness and experiment with different cheeses to find your perfect combination. Happy snacking!
To make mozzarella sticks in the oven, you will need the following ingredients:
To properly coat the mozzarella sticks before baking, follow these steps:
Yes, you can make mozzarella sticks in advance and freeze them. After coating the sticks in breadcrumbs, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about an hour. Once they are frozen, transfer them into an airtight container or Ziploc bag and store in the freezer for up to one month. When ready to bake, preheat your oven, place the frozen mozzarella sticks on a greased baking sheet, and bake according to the recipe instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a greased baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other. Bake for about 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the exterior is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning or cheese leakage.
Mozzarella sticks made in the oven are best served hot and crispy. You can serve them as an appetizer with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on the side. Additionally, you can pair them with a salad or soup to make a complete meal. Enjoy them immediately after baking for the best taste and texture.