These Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella sticks are cheesy, crispy, and totally irresistible! They’re perfect for snacks or party appetizers, and they cook up quickly on your Blackstone griddle.
Let’s be real, when you hear that gooey cheese pull, it’s hard not to smile! I love dipping them in marinara sauce—it’s a match made in heaven. Who can say no to cheese, right? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Mozzarella: Use fresh mozzarella for that nice creamy texture. If you can’t find it, low-moisture mozzarella works too, but the gooey pull won’t be as dramatic.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a super crispy texture! Regular bread crumbs are fine, but they won’t be as crunchy. You can also use crushed cornflakes for a fun twist.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard here. If you’re gluten-free, look for a gluten-free flour blend that works well for breading.
Eggs: Two large eggs help bind everything together. If you’re avoiding eggs, try using a mixture of ground flaxseed and water as a binder.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Crispy Mozzarella Sticks?
Getting them crispy is all about the breading process. Make sure to coat each slice thoroughly and press the breadcrumbs in to help them stay put. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Use three bowls for coating: one for flour, one for egg wash, and one for breadcrumbs.
- Don’t rush—it’s key to coat well. Pat on the breadcrumbs to ensure they stick.
- Heat your griddle to the right temperature, around 350°F, to get that sizzling crisp.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding; this helps them cook evenly and become crispy.
Let them cool briefly on a paper towel to avoid sogginess, and serve with warm marinara. Enjoy the crispy goodness!
How to Make Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking oil (canola or vegetable oil) for frying on Blackstone griddle
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking, totaling around 25 minutes. You’ll have deliciously crispy fried mozzarella sticks ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Griddle:
Start by preheating your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. Aim for about 350°F. A hot griddle helps achieve that perfect golden brown crust.
2. Set Up Breading Stations:
Prepare three shallow bowls for the breading process. In the first, add the flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and black pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs together with a tablespoon of water. In the third, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and more salt and pepper. This makes your breading flavor-packed!
3. Bread the Mozzarella:
Take each mozzarella slice and dip it in the flour first, ensuring both sides are coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured cheese into the egg wash, letting the extra drip off, and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to secure the coating. Repeat this for each slice of mozzarella.
4. Fry the Mozzarella:
Pour a thin layer of cooking oil onto the griddle once it’s hot. Place the breaded mozzarella slices onto the griddle, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. You want that lovely crunch!
5. Drain and Garnish:
Using a spatula, carefully remove the fried mozzarella sticks from the griddle and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a nice touch.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
These cheesy bites are best served hot! Pair them with warm marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy your crispy, gooey blackstone fried mozzarella sticks!
How to Store Leftover Fried Mozzarella?
Store any leftover fried mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep them crispy, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb moisture.
Can I Freeze Fried Mozzarella Sticks?
Yes! After frying, let the mozzarella sticks cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-lock bag for up to 3 months. You can reheat them directly from the freezer for a quick snack!
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs on hand, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but they will result in a slightly less crispy texture. Alternatively, crushed cornflakes or even crushed crackers can work for a unique twist!
How Do I Prevent the Cheese from Melting Out While Frying?
To minimize cheese leakage, make sure the breaded mozzarella is well-coated and use a hotter griddle to cook quickly. Frying them in batches rather than overcrowding the surface also helps maintain the temperature. You can even freeze the breaded sticks for 30 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape better!