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Baked Mozzarella Sticks

These baked mozzarella sticks deliver a crispy, golden exterior with a gooey, cheesy interior, all achieved through oven baking instead of traditional frying. Main ingredients include block mozzarella for stretch and panko breadcrumbs for crunch, creating a satisfying snack or appetizer with less mess and oil. The final result is a visually appealing, crispy-coated cheese stick that pulls apart to reveal melty cheese inside.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 block mozzarella cheese preferably whole block for better stretch
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, optional seasonings included
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder optional, for flavor
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika optional, for flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning the breadcrumb mix
  • neutral spray cooking spray or oil mister for browning

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone mat
  • Three shallow dishes
  • Mixing bowls
  • Cooking spray or oil mister

Method
 

  1. Start by cutting the block mozzarella into four equal sticks about 10 cm long and 1 cm thick, keeping them cold until ready to coat.
  2. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dredge each mozzarella stick in the flour, making sure it’s fully coated and shaking off any excess.
  4. Next, dip the floured stick into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off gently.
  5. Finally, coat the stick thoroughly in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks well. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for a double coat.
  6. Place the coated sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone mat, spacing them evenly. Lightly spray or mist with neutral oil for a golden, crispy crust.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 8-10 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is starting to melt.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the mozzarella sticks rest for 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to set slightly and making them easier to handle.
  9. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like marinara or ranch for maximum gooeyness and crunch.