Frozen mozzarella sticks make for a quick and easy appetizer or snack. However, to get the best results when cooking frozen mozzarella sticks, there are some tips and tricks you’ll want to keep in mind. Here we will walk through everything you need to know to cook frozen mozzarella sticks to crispy, melty perfection.
What are frozen mozzarella sticks?
Frozen mozzarella sticks consist of mozzarella cheese coated in a breadcrumb batter that has been pre-formed into finger shaped sticks and frozen. They are a popular appetizer or snack found at many restaurants, and convenient versions are sold at most grocery stores to prepare at home.
Some key benefits of cooking with frozen mozzarella sticks include:
– Convenience – They are ready to cook straight from the freezer, no prep needed.
– Consistent results – The pre-made, uniform size and shape leads to even cooking.
– Customization – They can be prepared plain or with marinara sauce for dipping.
– Kid-friendly – Mozzarella sticks are a go-to crowdpleaser with kids.
So when a cheesy, crispy snack is needed in a hurry, frozen mozzarella sticks are a great choice.
How are frozen mozzarella sticks best cooked?
While the oven and air fryer produce great results, deep frying makes the crispiest mozzarella sticks. However, pan frying also does a great job crisping the outside while keeping the cheese inside warm and melty. Here’s an overview of common cooking methods:
Deep Frying
Deep frying mozzarella sticks allows the hot oil to surround the entire stick, resulting in an ultra crispy external breading. Use a heavy bottomed pot or dutch oven and heat at least 2 inches of neutral oil to 350°F. Gently add sticks, cooking in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, flipping once. Drain on a paper towel lined plate.
Oven Baking
Baking frozen mozzarella sticks in the oven gives a nice, even crispiness, though they may not get quite as crunchy as deep fried. Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake at 425°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
Air Frying
Air frying is great for giving frozen mozzarella sticks that fried texture with less oil. Air fry at 400°F for 6-8 minutes until crispy, shake the basket halfway through cook time. Use non-stick spray on the basket if needed to prevent sticking.
Pan Frying
Pan frying in just a tablespoon or two of oil can produce delicious, crisp-crusted mozzarella sticks. Heat oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Cook sticks 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Tip: Coat sticks lightly in flour before frying for extra crispy results.
Tips for Crispy, Melty Mozzarella Sticks
Whether oven baking, air frying, or pan frying, follow these tips for the best, restaurant-quality mozzarella sticks every time:
– Use a non-stick pan or coat with oil – This prevents sticking and allows the breading to fry up crispy.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan or baking sheet – Too many sticks touching will steam instead of crisp.
– Freeze briefly before frying – Flash freezing for 10-15 minutes firms sticks up for less cheese leakage.
– Pat dry before breading – Remove excess moisture from frozen sticks so the coating adheres better.
– Fry at the right temperature – Between 325°F-375°F ensures hot and crispy coating without burning.
– Allow sticks to rest after cooking – Letting them sit 1-2 minutes allows cheese to set.
– Serve right away – Mozzarella sticks are best immediately after cooking while hot and melty.
How to Bread Frozen Mozzarella Sticks
One of the keys to achieving maximum crispness with frozen mozzarella sticks is proper breading. Here is a simple breading procedure:
1. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls or plates. Put flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and panko or breadcrumbs in the third.
2. Pat frozen mozzarella sticks dry with paper towels. Allow to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to take off some of the chill.
3. Dredge sticks in flour, fully coating each one. Shake off any excess.
4. Dip floured sticks in the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Finally, place sticks in the breadcrumbs, pressing to completely coat.
6. For an extra crispy crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps again.
7. Place breaded sticks on a parchment lined baking sheet or plate and freeze for 10-15 minutes before frying.
The flour, egg, and breadcrumb layers should fully coat each stick for a deliciously crispy exterior once cooked.
What to Serve with Mozzarella Sticks
Warm, gooey mozzarella sticks pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Here are some tasty options:
Marinara Sauce – This classic red sauce is an essential partner for mozzarella sticks. The tangy tomato flavor complements the cheesy interior.
Ranch – Cool and creamy ranch makes a refreshing dip for fried mozzarella sticks.
Honey Mustard – The sweet and tangy flavors of honey mustard balance beautifully with hot crispy mozzarella sticks.
Cheese Sauce – For ultimate cheesy indulgence, try dipping sticks in a prepared cheese sauce.
Salsa – For a fresh take, serve mozzarella sticks with a zesty tomato salsa.
Guacamole – The rich, cool flavor of guacamole works surprisingly well with hot melted cheese.
You can also serve mozzarella sticks with fun dippers like marinara sauce for dunking. Set out a variety of sauces so guests can decide their favorite pairing.
Freezing Leftover Mozzarella Sticks
Cooked mozzarella sticks refrigerate well for 3-4 days. To freeze any leftovers:
– Let mozzarella sticks cool completely after cooking.
– Place on a parchment lined baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, about 2 hours.
– Transfer frozen mozzarella sticks to freezer bags or airtight containers. Remove as much air as possible.
– Label bags with contents and date. Frozen mozzarella sticks will keep for 2-3 months.
To reheat, bake frozen mozzarella sticks straight from the freezer at 400°F for 10-12 minutes until hot and crispy. Microwaving is not recommended, as it will make the breading soggy.
Troubleshooting Mozzarella Sticks
Here are some common issues that can occur when cooking frozen mozzarella sticks and how to avoid them:
Problem: Breading falls off during cooking.
Solution: Make sure sticks are fully coated and form a seal with egg wash. Let Freezing before frying also helps.
Problem: Cheese leaks out.
Solution: Don’t overcrowd sticks when cooking. Use lower oven temp or fry heat.
Problem: Breading burns but inside is still frozen.
Solution: Make sure oil is at proper temp when frying. Bake at moderate oven temp.
Problem: Sticks not crispy.
Solution: Fry at higher heat or use smaller batches. Bake sticks on rack instead of pan.
Problem: Breadcrumbs fall off after cooking.
Solution: Let sticks rest 1-2 minutes after cooking before serving.
How to Make Homemade Mozzarella Sticks
While frozen pre-made mozzarella sticks are convenient, homemade allows you to control the ingredients. Here is a recipe to make your own:
Ingredients:
– 1 pound block mozzarella, cut into 1/2 inch sticks
– 1 cup flour
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
– 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Marinara sauce, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cut mozzarella block into 1/2 inch thick sticks. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze 30 minutes.
2. Set up breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan and garlic powder in separate shallow dishes.
3. Dredge frozen mozzarella sticks in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture. Repeat egg and breadcrumb layer once more.
4. Fill a heavy pot with 2-3 inches vegetable oil over medium heat. Heat oil to 350°F.
5. Fry mozzarella sticks in batches 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towel lined plate.
6. Serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping.
Making homemade allows you to use high quality ingredients like fresh mozzarella. Adjust breading flavors to your liking or experiment with coatings like panko or cornmeal for different textures.
Are Frozen Mozzarella Sticks Pre-cooked?
No, commercially frozen mozzarella sticks are not pre-cooked. They are simply the breaded cheese formed into sticks and frozen raw. This allows them to cook up fresh and crispy in the oven or fryer, unlike pre-cooked frozen versions which would end up soggy.
It’s the freezing process that shapes and binds the mozzarella sticks so they hold their form during cooking. Always cook frozen mozzarella sticks fully until hot and golden brown before eating. Partially thawed or cooked sticks run the risk of uneven cooking and possible food borne illness if bacteria is still present.
Nutrition Information
Here is the nutrition information for a typical serving of 4 frozen mozzarella sticks (72g) prepared by oven baking:
| Calories | 270 |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Sodium | 520mg |
Mozzarella sticks get a good amount of calories and fat from the cheese filling and oil used for frying. Breading adds carbohydrates. They make for a filling but indulgent snack or appetizer.
Opt for part-skim mozzarella or bake instead of frying to cut down on fat and calories without sacrificing that delicious cheese pull. Serve with tomato sauce rather than creamy ranch or cheese dips for a fresher flavor.
The Best Mozzarella for Sticks
For the optimal stretchy, gooey cheese texture, use good quality whole milk mozzarella. Here are some top options:
– Fresh mozzarella – The gold standard, soft and milky fresh mozzarella melts divinely when breaded and fried.
– Block mozzarella – Convenient and readily available, block mozzarella has a good melting quality.
– Low moisture mozzarella – This firmer style holds its shape well for nice cheese pull.
– Ovoline – Made from buffalo milk, this extra creamy mozzarella makes gourmet sticks.
– Provolone – Similar to mozzarella, provolone also has great melting properties.
Avoid pre-shredded bagged cheeses, as they contain additives that inhibit smooth melting. Hand cut fresh mozzarella or block cheese into sticks instead.
Conclusion
For the crunchiest, crispiest mozzarella sticks, frying is best. But baking or air frying offer lower mess and fat options. Whichever method you choose, coat sticks properly in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs for ideal texture. Use high quality mozzarella and serve immediately with fun dipping sauces. Follow these tips for restaurant-worthy appetizers from your own kitchen. Now get out there and enjoy those delicious cheesy sticks!