Description
These crispy baked mozzarella sticks are a healthier, mess-free alternative to fried versions, delivering a perfect crunch and gooey cheese inside. Ideal for game day or any snack craving.
Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella sticks (about 24 ounces / 680g), pre-cut string cheese sticks
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (60g)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs (150g)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Optional: marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Line three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each mozzarella stick first in flour, shaking off excess, then in the beaten eggs, and finally roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- For extra crispiness, double-dip by repeating the egg and breadcrumb coating once more.
- Place the coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet or wire rack and freeze uncovered for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place frozen sticks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
- Lightly spray the sticks with olive oil spray. Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying again, until golden and crispy.
- Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Freeze the coated sticks before baking to prevent cheese leakage and ensure crispiness. Use a wire rack during baking for even air circulation. Double breadcrumb coating adds extra crunch. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Serve immediately for best texture. Reheat in oven, not microwave, to maintain crispiness. Can be made gluten-free by swapping flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions. Vegan adaptations possible with plant-based cheese and flax eggs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 mozzarella sticks
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 380
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 14
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 12
Keywords: mozzarella sticks, baked mozzarella sticks, crispy mozzarella sticks, game day snack, easy snack, healthier snack, baked cheese sticks