Fearless Fried Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
Crispy, golden fried mozzarella sticks with a tangy dipping sauce, perfect for sharing as an appetizer or snack at parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and coat a baking sheet with olive oil spray.
- Place egg whites and seasoned bread crumbs in separate shallow bowls.
- Coat the mozzarella cheese strips first in egg whites, then in bread crumbs, pressing to coat completely.
- Arrange the coated mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spray the mozzarella sticks with olive oil spray.
- Bake for 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the dipping sauce by mixing fat-free mayonnaise, catsup, and horseradish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, consider double-dipping the mozzarella sticks in egg whites and bread crumbs. You can substitute the fat-free mozzarella with part-skim cheese for a creamier taste, but note that it may be less healthy. If you prefer a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the bread crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious mozzarella sticks as a fun appetizer alongside your favorite marinara sauce for dipping. They pair beautifully with a side of Buttermilk Pineapple Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them with a simple green salad or as part of a vegetarian platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fearless Fried Mozzarella Cheese Sticks contains roughly 242 calories, with 19g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 821mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular mozzarella instead of fat-free?
Yes, you can use regular mozzarella, but keep in mind that it will add more calories and fat to the dish. It may also melt differently, resulting in a gooier texture. If you're looking for a healthier option, stick with fat-free cheese.
How can I make these mozzarella sticks spicier?
To add some heat, mix cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the seasoned bread crumbs before coating the mozzarella. You could also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce made from adding hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture.
Can I freeze the mozzarella sticks before baking?
Absolutely! You can freeze the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, cook them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).