Chef's Tip
For the perfect cheese sticks, double-coat them with breadcrumbs and freeze them solidly before frying. This prevents the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking out during cooking. Maintaining the correct oil temperature is also crucial for achieving that golden exterior.
Instructions
- Cut each mozzarella stick in half crosswise to make 32 shorter pieces.
- Set up a breading station: In one shallow dish, combine flour, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. In a second dish, whisk eggs with milk. In a third dish, mix Italian breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, oregano, basil, and Parmesan cheese.
- Working with a few pieces at a time, coat each cheese stick in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Dip into egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Roll in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a second coating (this helps prevent cheese from leaking).
- Place breaded cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least 1 hour or until solid.
- When ready to cook, heat oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F, using a thermometer to monitor temperature.
- Meanwhile, warm marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Working in batches of 6-8 pieces, fry frozen cheese sticks until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
- Remove with a slotted spoon or spider and drain on paper towels. Maintain oil temperature between batches.
- Sprinkle with a little additional salt if desired while still hot.
- Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Plating
Arrange mozzarella sticks in a vertical stack or in a circular pattern on a serving plate. Place a small ramekin of warm marinara sauce in the center or to the side. Sprinkle the plate with chopped fresh parsley for color. For a casual presentation, serve in a paper-lined basket with the sauce on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Uncooked breaded cheese sticks can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Fry directly from frozen as directed. Cooked mozzarella sticks are best enjoyed immediately but can be reheated in a 375°F oven for 5 minutes if necessary, though the cheese may not be as gooey. Not recommended for microwave reheating.
About This Recipe
These homemade mozzarella sticks draw inspiration from The Barnacle's popular appetizer menu. The technique of double-coating and freezing before frying ensures that perfect contrast between the crispy exterior and melted cheese interior. This home version adapts restaurant methods to create an irresistible snack or starter that's sure to please a crowd.