Are you craving a crunchy, cheesy snack that comes together in a flash? These 5-Minute Baked Mozzarella Sticks are exactly what you need. Perfectly golden on the outside and oozing with melty mozzarella on the inside, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Unlike traditional fried versions, these sticks are baked to crispy perfection using simple ingredients you likely have on hand. They’re easy to make, require minimal prep, and satisfy those cheese cravings without the mess of frying. Whether you’re hosting a game night, looking for a kid-friendly snack, or just want something quick and delicious, these baked mozzarella sticks hit the spot every time.
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What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets these 5-Minute Baked Mozzarella Sticks apart is how quickly they come together without compromising on flavor or texture. Using panko crumbs gives them a wonderful, extra-crispy coating, while a touch of finely ground parmesan adds a savory depth that complements the mozzarella beautifully. The simple flour and egg wash method ensures the crumbs stick perfectly, resulting in a crunchy crust with every bite. Baking instead of frying means less oil, which keeps things lighter and easier to clean up. Plus, this recipe uses string cheese sticks, making portioning a breeze and guaranteeing gooey cheese every time. It’s convenience, taste, and texture all rolled into one quick recipe!
Your Shopping Guide
- Panko crumbs (½ cup): Look for plain, unseasoned panko to keep control over your flavor. These crumbs give the sticks their signature crunch.
- All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): This is used to help the egg wash stick to the cheese, creating the perfect base for the panko coating.
- Finely ground parmesan cheese (1 tablespoon): Adds a nutty, salty kick to the coating. You can find pre-grated parmesan or grate your own for freshness.
- Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors. Make sure it’s kosher salt and not iodized table salt for the best texture.
- Mozzarella string cheese sticks (12 sticks): The star ingredient. Use classic mozzarella string cheese, removing wrappers before baking.
- Egg (1, lightly beaten): Acts as a binder to hold the coating to the cheese sticks.
Cook’s Kit
- Baking sheet: A rimmed baking sheet works best to catch any drips and keep your oven clean.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup super easy.
- Shallow bowls or plates: For the flour and egg wash, as well as the panko mixture.
- Tongs or forks: To dip the cheese sticks without making a mess.
- Cooling rack (optional): Helps keep the sticks crispy by allowing air to circulate after baking.
5-Minute Baked Mozzarella Sticks: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare your workspace
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup quick.
Step 2: Mix the coating
In a shallow bowl, combine the panko crumbs, finely ground parmesan cheese, and kosher salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the cheese and salt throughout the crumbs.
Step 3: Set up your dredging stations
Place the flour in a separate shallow bowl. In another bowl, lightly beat the egg until smooth. This will help the panko mixture stick to the cheese sticks.
Step 4: Coat the mozzarella sticks
Working one at a time, roll a mozzarella string cheese stick in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, roll it in the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well. For an extra-crispy coating, repeat the egg and panko steps once more.
Step 5: Bake
Place the coated mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart so they don’t stick together. Bake for about 5 minutes or until the coating is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them so the cheese doesn’t leak out.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Remove from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two—they’ll be hot and melty! Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli for an irresistible snack.
Dietary Swaps & Alternatives
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free panko crumbs and a gluten-free flour blend to keep it safe for gluten sensitivities.
- Dairy-free twist: Swap mozzarella sticks for a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well, and use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan for the coating.
- Low-sodium version: Reduce or omit the added kosher salt in the panko mixture and choose a low-sodium cheese stick.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the panko mixture for a little heat.
- Herbaceous flavor: Mix in dried Italian herbs or fresh chopped parsley into the panko for an herby crust.
Troubles You Can Avoid
- Cheese leaking out: Double-dip the sticks in egg and panko to create a thicker coating that seals in the cheese.
- Coating falling off: Make sure to dry the cheese sticks slightly before coating and press the panko crumbs firmly onto the egg layer.
- Sticks sticking to the pan: Use parchment paper or a silicone mat and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
- Under-baked crust: Bake at a high temperature (425°F) and keep an eye on the sticks to achieve a golden, crispy finish.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
These 5-Minute Baked Mozzarella Sticks are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Storing: Place cooled sticks in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Arrange coated sticks on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, which can make the coating soggy.
Common Questions
Can I make these mozzarella sticks ahead of time?
Yes! You can bread the sticks and freeze them before baking. When ready to serve, bake them straight from the freezer for a crispy, fresh-tasting snack.
What dipping sauces go best with baked mozzarella sticks?
Classic marinara is a favorite, but ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo all pair beautifully with these cheesy sticks.
Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of string cheese?
Using shredded mozzarella won’t give you the same shape or gooey center, but you can try forming small logs and freezing them before breading. String cheese sticks are recommended for ease and consistency.
How do I prevent cheese from sticking to my teeth?
Enjoy these sticks warm to minimize the cheese stringiness. Also, pairing them with a tangy dipping sauce can help cut through the richness and reduce stickiness.
Final Bite
If you’re on the hunt for a quick, satisfying snack that delivers big on flavor and crunch, these 5-Minute Baked Mozzarella Sticks are a total win. They combine the ooey-gooey cheese we all love with a crispy, golden crust—all without the hassle of frying. Plus, using simple pantry staples means you can whip them up anytime those cheese cravings strike. Serve them at your next gathering, enjoy as an after-school treat, or indulge whenever you need a fast, cheesy pick-me-up. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a staple in your snack rotation!
Ready to get baking? Grab your ingredients and let’s make these irresistible 5-Minute Baked Mozzarella Sticks happen today!
5-Minute Baked Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup quick.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the panko crumbs, finely ground parmesan cheese, and kosher salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the cheese and salt throughout the crumbs.
- Place the flour in a separate shallow bowl. In another bowl, lightly beat the egg until smooth. This will help the panko mixture stick to the cheese sticks.
- Working one at a time, roll a mozzarella string cheese stick in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, roll it in the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well. For an extra-crispy coating, repeat the egg and panko steps once more.
- Place the coated mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart so they don’t stick together. Bake for about 5 minutes or until the coating is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them so the cheese doesn’t leak out.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two—they’ll be hot and melty! Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli for an irresistible snack.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free panko crumbs and flour.
- Double-dip for a thicker coating to prevent cheese leakage.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container lined with paper towels.
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