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Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Whole-Grain Breadcrumbs

These baked mozzarella sticks are coated in nutty whole-grain breadcrumbs and baked until golden and crispy, offering a healthier alternative to fried snacks. The cheese inside remains gooey and stretchy, creating a satisfying contrast with the crunchy exterior. Perfect for weeknights, they deliver cheesy comfort with less mess and guilt.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 200 g fresh mozzarella cheese cut into sticks
  • 1 cup whole-grain breadcrumbs seasoned with Italian herbs or chili flakes
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour can substitute rice flour for gluten-free
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil spray for spritzing before baking

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone mat
  • Three shallow bowls
  • Offset spatula or tongs
  • Oven thermometer

Method
 

  1. Begin by cutting the mozzarella into sticks about 10 cm long and 1.5 cm thick. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent melting during coating.
  2. Set up your coating station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned whole-grain breadcrumbs. Keep a plate nearby for the coated sticks.
  3. Take a frozen mozzarella stick and dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off.
  4. Next, press the stick into the seasoned breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated. Repeat the process for each stick, placing them on the prepared baking sheet as you go.
  5. Once all sticks are coated, lightly spray them with olive oil to help achieve a crispy, golden exterior.
  6. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Bake the sticks for about 10-12 minutes, until the coating is golden and crispy, and the cheese inside is starting to soften.
  7. If you want extra crispness, briefly broil the sticks for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  8. Remove the sticks from the oven and let them rest for 2 minutes. The cheese will be hot and gooey, so be cautious when biting into them.
  9. Serve immediately with marinara sauce or your favorite dip to enjoy the gooey, crispy goodness.