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Baked Mozzarella Sticks

These baked mozzarella sticks deliver the same crispy, cheesy goodness as fried versions but with less oil and mess. Coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs and baked until golden brown, they feature a gooey interior and crunchy exterior, perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 200 g block mozzarella cheese cut into 10cm long, 1cm wide sticks
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs seasoned or plain
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free alternative
  • 1 tbsp seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with spices or herbs if desired
  • to taste cooking spray light mist for crisping

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone mat
  • Three shallow dishes
  • Cooling rack (optional)
  • Spray bottle or oil mister

Method
 

  1. Start by cutting the mozzarella block into four equal sticks, about 10cm long and 1cm wide. Place the sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes—this helps prevent melting during baking.
  2. Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the third with seasoned panko breadcrumbs mixed with herbs or spices if you like. Keep everything within reach for easy coating.
  3. Take a frozen mozzarella stick and roll it in the flour, pressing gently to coat evenly. Shake off any excess.
  4. Dip the floured stick into the beaten eggs, making sure it's fully coated with a shiny, slightly thick layer of egg.
  5. Next, roll the stick in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coat.
  6. Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone mat, leaving space between each. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for extra crispness.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 220°C (430°F) for 8–10 minutes, or until the coating turns golden brown and crispy. Listen for a gentle crackle when tapping the crust to check for perfect crunch.
  8. Remove the sticks from the oven and let them rest for 2 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly inside, reducing oozing when served.
  9. Serve the mozzarella sticks immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or garlic aioli, while they're hot and crispy.

Notes

For extra crunch, double coat the sticks with egg and breadcrumbs before baking. Freezing the mozzarella helps keep the cheese gooey inside without melting too quickly. Lightly spraying the coating before baking promotes a golden, crispy crust.