Ooey Gooey Mozzarella Sticks

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks: Start by unwrapping the mozzarella sticks. Lay them out on a parchment-lined tray and place them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. Freezing the cheese is crucial as it helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
2. Set Up the Breading Stations: In a shallow bowl, place the flour. In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and water. In a third shallow bowl, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread the Mozzarella Sticks: Once the cheese sticks are frozen, dip each one into the flour, coating it evenly. Next, dip the floured cheese stick into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs adhere. For extra crunch, you can dip the coated mozzarella sticks in the egg and breadcrumbs a second time, but this is optional.
4. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of bread into the oil—it should sizzle immediately. Working in batches, carefully lower the breaded mozzarella sticks into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan.
5. Drain and Serve: Once the mozzarella sticks are fried, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
6. Serve with Marinara Sauce: These ooey gooey mozzarella sticks are best served hot, with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy tomato sauce pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese and crispy crust, creating the ultimate flavor combination.

Why These Ooey Gooey Mozzarella Sticks Are a Must-Try:

• Perfectly Melty Cheese: When you bite into these mozzarella sticks, you’re met with the perfect balance of crispy crust and melting cheese that stretches with every pull. It’s the definition of cheesy goodness!
• Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, these mozzarella sticks are easy to prepare and perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer.
• Customizable: You can easily customize the breading by adding your favorite spices, herbs, or even a touch of heat (think cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes). You can also swap in different cheeses if you prefer something other than mozzarella.
• Fried to Perfection: The golden-brown, crispy exterior provides the perfect contrast to the gooey, stretchy cheese inside. Each bite is a satisfying crunch followed by creamy, cheesy goodness.

Pro Tips for the Best Mozzarella Sticks:

• Freeze the Sticks: Don’t skip the freezing step! Freezing the mozzarella sticks before frying helps the cheese stay intact and prevents it from leaking out during the frying process.
• Double Coat for Extra Crunch: For a crunchier coating, double-dip the cheese sticks—once in the egg wash and then in the bread crumbs, and again for both. This will give them an extra crispy exterior.
• Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough to fry, but not too hot that it burns the breading before the cheese has a chance to melt. Keeping the oil at around 350°F (175°C) ensures crispy and golden results.
• Air Fryer Option: If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can make these mozzarella sticks in an air fryer! Spray them with a little oil and air fry at 375°F for about 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown.

Final Thoughts:

These Ooey Gooey Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate cheesy indulgence, and they’re surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a party snack, or just as a fun treat for yourself, these mozzarella sticks are always a crowd-pleaser. Crispy on the outside, melty on the inside, and paired with a delicious dipping sauce, they’re bound to become a staple in your snack repertoire. So, get ready to dive into cheesy perfection—you won’t be able to stop at just one!