Introduction

Mozzarella sticks are a beloved classic, perfect for game nights, gatherings, or as a comforting snack. The combination of gooey mozzarella wrapped in a crispy, flavorful coating offers a delightful contrast that can satisfy any cheese craving. In this recipe, we’ve taken the traditional mozzarella stick and given it a unique twist by incorporating ingredients that elevate the flavors and textures. Ideal for those who enjoy a bit of kitchen adventure, this recipe combines Parmesan and crushed pork rinds for an extra savory touch.

Recipe Overview

Each mozzarella stick is carefully halved and dipped twice in a seasoned blend of Parmesan cheese, crushed pork rinds, and Italian herbs, ensuring a robust and aromatic taste with every bite. The double dipping creates a thicker crust that not only enhances the crunch but also holds the melting cheese perfectly. Freezing the sticks prior to baking helps maintain their shape and texture, ensuring that the cheese melts just right without leaking out. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or as a treat for yourself, the preparation process is part of the fun, involving simple steps that yield delicious results.

Serving Suggestions

Once baked to golden perfection, these mozzarella sticks are best served hot, paired with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. The sauce complements the rich and crispy sticks, adding a tangy contrast that brings out the full range of flavors. Whether you’re sharing these with friends or enjoying them solo, they’re sure to be a hit. Read on for the full recipe and step-by-step instructions to create these irresistible mozzarella cheese sticks in your own kitchen.

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Mozzarella Cheese Sticks Recipe

Ingredients:

• 6 Mozzarella Sticks
• 1/2 cup grated dry Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups fried pork rinds
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning blend
• 1 egg
• 2 tsps water

Instructions:

1. Preparation:

• Cut the mozzarella sticks in half cross-wise and set aside.
• Place the egg and water in a small shallow dish or pan and whisk to mix.

1. Coating Mixture:

• Crush the pork rinds with a rolling pin or in a blender until you have about 1/2 cup of pork rind crumbs.
• In a shallow baking pan, mix together the Parmesan cheese, crushed pork rinds, and Italian seasoning.

1. Coating the Sticks:

• Dip each mozzarella stick, one at a time, first into the egg wash, then into the crumb mixture.
• Repeat the dipping into both the egg wash and the crumb mixture for a second coating to ensure a thick crust.
• Place the coated sticks on a dish or pan that can fit in the freezer.

1. Freezing:

• Freeze the mozzarella sticks for two hours to firm up the coating and ensure they maintain their shape during baking.

1. Baking:

• Preheat your oven to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Line a baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
• Place the frozen mozzarella sticks directly from the freezer onto the pan.
• Optionally, spray a light coating of olive oil over the sticks to enhance browning.
• Bake for 6-8 minutes, until the coating is golden brown and the cheese is warm and soft.

1. Serving:

• Serve the mozzarella sticks immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

Enjoy crafting this tasty snack that is sure to bring smiles and a touch of gourmet flair to your kitchen table!