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Baked Mozzarella Sticks - featured image

Baked Mozzarella Sticks: Easy Crispy Recipe

  • Author: Lucia
  • Total Time: 43 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Crispy, golden baked mozzarella sticks made with a double-dip panko coating for maximum crunch without deep frying. A quick, kid-approved appetizer or snack ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces (450g) low-moisture, whole-milk mozzarella cheese (block form)
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons water or milk
  • 2 cups (160g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons salt (divided)
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup (240g) marinara sauce
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Non-stick cooking spray (olive oil spray recommended)

Instructions

  1. Slice the mozzarella block into 1-inch thick rounds, then cut into quarters or halves to create sticks roughly 3-4 inches long. Place in a single layer on a tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes until rock hard.
  2. Set up three shallow bowls. Bowl 1: Mix flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and half the Italian seasoning. Bowl 2: Whisk eggs with 2 tablespoons of water. Bowl 3: Mix panko, remaining Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon salt.
  3. Remove cheese from freezer. Dredge each stick in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into egg wash, then roll in panko, pressing to adhere. Repeat the egg wash and panko step (double-dip) for a thick crust. Place coated sticks back on the tray and freeze for another 20-30 minutes.
  4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Arrange frozen sticks on the sheet, leaving space between them.
  5. Generously spray the tops of the sticks with cooking spray. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Check at 15 minutes to prevent burning.
  6. While sticks bake, warm marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in dried oregano and red pepper flakes. Keep warm but not boiling.
  7. Remove sticks from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes to allow cheese to settle. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce.

Notes

The key to success is freezing the cheese solid before and after breading to prevent leaking. Use low-moisture block mozzarella, not shredded or fresh mozzarella balls. For extra crunch, try a triple-dip method. These can be frozen uncooked for up to 3 months and baked directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to cook time.

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6 sticks per serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 580
  • Fat: 16
  • Saturated Fat: 8
  • Carbohydrates: 28
  • Protein: 18

Keywords: baked mozzarella sticks, crispy mozzarella sticks, easy appetizer, kid-friendly recipes, air fryer mozzarella, party snacks, quick dinner, gluten-free option

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Find it online: https://mydinnerideas.com/baked-mozzarella-sticks-easy-crispy-recipe/