Crispy Baked Mozzarella Sticks
Get that restaurant-level crunch and epic cheese pull without the deep fryer. These baked mozzarella sticks use a smart double-coat technique and high-heat broiling for the perfect snack.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Small bowls
- Whisk
- Toothpicks
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 1 Large egg
- 0.75 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
- 8 Toothpicks
- 4 Reduced-fat mozzarella string cheese sticks (halved)
Instructions
Set up the broiler and tray
- Preheat your toaster oven on broil or position an oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler element and preheat.
- Generously coat a small baking sheet with cooking spray so the cheese sticks do not stick during the high-heat cooking.
Build the slurry and dredging station
- Beat the egg in a small bowl until smooth and loose. If you have cornstarch on hand, whisking in a tablespoon helps create a moisture-resistant seal.
- Place the Italian seasoned bread crumbs in a separate small bowl, fluffing them with your fingers to ensure an even coating.
Coat the cheese sticks, twice
- Insert a toothpick vertically into each halved cheese stick to use as a handle, which keeps the cheese cold while you work.
- Dip each cheese piece into the egg mixture, let the excess drip off, then press firmly into the bread crumbs. Repeat the dip and press a second time to build a sturdy shell, especially on the ends.
Spray, then broil fast
- Arrange the breaded sticks on the prepared baking sheet and mist the tops with cooking spray for even browning.
- Broil for 4 to 5 minutes until the coating is deeply golden, then let them rest for 1 minute before removing the toothpicks to prevent the cheese from leaking.
Notes
Flash Freeze Rule: For the best results, freeze the breaded sticks for 30 to 60 minutes before broiling. This slows the internal melting process so the outside can get crispy without the cheese bursting.
Storage & Reheating: Keep leftovers in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the breading soggy.
Prevention Tip: Ensure you double coat every piece and press the crumbs firmly into the ends. Any bare spots act as escape hatches for the molten cheese.
Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.
Nutrition
Calories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 14gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 350mgIron: 1mg
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