Baked Mozzarella Sticks

Ingredients

• 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 1/2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Cooking spray
• Marinara sauce for dipping

Substitutions

• Use low-moisture mozzarella cut into even sticks when string cheese is unavailable.
• Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko for a gluten-free coating.

Instructions

Step 1: Cut and prepare

Cut mozzarella sticks in half if desired. Set up bowls with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan and seasonings.

Step 2: Coat

Dip each mozzarella stick in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Repeat egg and breadcrumb coating for extra crunch.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat oven to 425°F. Spray mozzarella sticks lightly with oil and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until crisp.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce.

How to Store Leftovers

Cool the mozzarella sticks fully before refrigerating so steam does not soften the breading. Store them in a single layer when possible and use within 3 to 4 days; keep marinara or other dipping sauces in a separate container.

How to Reheat

Use a 375°F oven or air fryer until the coating is crisp and the cheese is hot. Watch closely near the end because once the mozzarella fully liquefies it can escape through cracks in the breading.

How to Serve It

• Warm marinara
• Pizza or flatbread

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Crowding the tray or basket.
• Saucing before the exterior crisps.
• Using a wet surface under the coating.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition is an estimate and can vary with brands, portion size, and substitutions.