Hey there, fellow foodie! Are you ready for an exciting culinary journey? Today, we’re going to tackle something epic together: turning a massive seven-pound block of mozzarella into gigantic foot-long Giant Mozzarella Sticks.
Get ready for a cheesy overload like you’ve never experienced before! We’re about to embark on an adventure that promises the ultimate indulgence. From prep to cooking, we’ll walk you through every step of creating these monstrous delights.
What is Giant Mozzarella Sticks?
Giant Mozzarella Sticks are a culinary spectacle, transforming a massive seven-pound block of mozzarella into foot-long, indulgent delights. These colossal cheese sticks boast a crispy exterior and an ooey-gooey, flavorful interior.
After cutting and shaping, they undergo a double-dredging process in seasoned flour, egg wash, and panko breadcrumbs. Once coated, these behemoth mozzarella sticks are frozen, ensuring they hold their form during the quick frying process.
Served with a homemade marinara sauce, these foot-long creations redefine the classic mozzarella stick, offering a visually stunning and irresistibly delicious twist on a beloved snack.
Ingredients for this Giant Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
- Seven-pound block of mozzarella
- 3 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 7 eggs
- ⅓ cup milk
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp. oregano
- 1 tbsp. basil
- 2 tbsp. garlic powder
- 1 tbsp. black pepper
- 1 tbsp. salt
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- ½ yellow onion, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp. Italian parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp. basil, thinly sliced
- Parmesan cheese and minced parsley for garnish
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 minutes per batch
Tools Required:
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Paper towels
- Mixing bowls
How to Make Giant Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
1. Cut the seven-pound block of mozzarella into foot-long sticks.
2. Create a dredging station with three trays: one with seasoned flour, one with a whisked egg and milk mixture, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Coat each mozzarella stick with flour, then dip it into the egg wash, and coat it with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Double-coat the sticks to ensure a perfect seal, preventing cheese leakage during frying. Place the coated sticks on a tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
5. Heat the fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the mozzarella sticks for about 2 minutes until golden brown. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
Garnish the giant mozzarella sticks with Parmesan cheese and minced parsley. Serve with the homemade marinara sauce or Ghost Pepper Sauce for a delightful dipping experience.
Serving Ideas for Giant Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Explore diverse serving and pairing suggestions to infuse greater variety into this dish. Unleash your creativity by incorporating your unique taste preferences and flavor combinations.
1. Classic Dipping Delight: Serve the foot-long mozzarella sticks on a wooden board with small bowls of the homemade marinara sauce for dipping. Add a sprinkle of fresh basil and grated Parmesan on top for a touch of elegance.
2. Party Platter Extravaganza: Arrange the mozzarella sticks on a large platter, creating a visually stunning display. Surround them with an assortment of other finger foods like mini bruschettas, stuffed mushrooms, and crispy zucchini fries for a party-ready spread.
3. Italian Antipasto Spread: Incorporate the giant mozzarella sticks into an Italian antipasto platter. Pair them with slices of prosciutto, marinated olives, cherry tomatoes, and artichoke hearts. Drizzle some balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor.
4. Mozzarella Stick Sliders: Get creative by using the foot-long mozzarella sticks as a filling for sliders. Place a stick between two halves of a soft slider bun and add a dollop of marinara sauce. This unexpected twist will delight your guests.
5. Mozzarella Stick Salad Topper: Slice the mozzarella sticks into bite-sized pieces and toss them into a fresh green salad. The warm, gooey cheese will add a delightful contrast to the crisp greens. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette.
6. Game Day Platter: Create the ultimate game day platter by arranging the mozzarella sticks alongside chicken wings, jalapeño poppers, and onion rings. Provide an array of dipping sauces for a variety of flavor options.
7. Kids’ Party Fun: For a kids’ party, serve the mozzarella sticks with smiley-faced ketchup and mustard designs. Create a playful atmosphere by arranging the sticks in the shape of letters or numbers, adding an educational element to the snack.
8. Mozzarella Stick Fondue: Melted cheese lovers, rejoice! Create a mozzarella stick fondue station by melting additional mozzarella cheese and serving it alongside the marinara sauce for a gooey, cheesy delight.
Some Special Guidelines for this Giant Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Consider these guidelines when attempting this recipe, especially if it’s your first time. Following these tips will assist you in crafting a flawless dish on your inaugural try.
1. Select Quality Mozzarella: Choose a high-quality mozzarella block for the best flavor and texture. Fresh mozzarella works exceptionally well.
2. Freeze Before Frying: Ensure the mozzarella sticks are adequately frozen for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the breading adhere better and prevents cheese leakage during frying.
3. Maintain Dredging Station Order: Keep the dredging station organized. Start with the seasoned flour, followed by the egg wash, and finish with the panko breadcrumbs. This order ensures a crisp and flavorful coating.
4. Double-Coating Technique: Double-coat each mozzarella stick to create a robust outer layer, preventing any cheese from oozing out during the frying process. Be thorough in the coating process for optimal results.
5. Use a Whisk for Consistency: Whisk the egg wash thoroughly to achieve a consistent texture. This ensures an even coating on the mozzarella sticks.
6. Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep a close eye on the fryer temperature. Frying at 350 degrees Fahrenheit ensures a quick and golden brown exterior while maintaining a gooey, melted interior.
7. Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: Fry the mozzarella sticks in small batches to avoid overcrowding the fryer. This ensures even cooking and a uniform golden-brown color.
8. Drain Excess Oil: After frying, place the mozzarella sticks on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This step prevents the sticks from becoming overly greasy.
9. Garnish for Presentation: Enhance the visual appeal by garnishing with Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of minced parsley. This adds a touch of freshness and complements the rich flavors.
10. Serve with Love: Present your giant mozzarella sticks with the homemade marinara sauce for a complete culinary experience. Allow them to cool slightly before serving to avoid any risk of burning your mouth.
11. Experiment with Dipping Sauces: While marinara is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other dipping sauces like garlic aioli, spicy marinara, or even a tangy barbecue sauce for a unique twist.
How to Store and Reheat Giant Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Storing:
- Cool Down: Let mozzarella sticks cool to room temperature.
- Single Layer: Place them on a tray, avoiding contact.
- Freezing (Optional): Freeze individually before storing in a sealed bag.
- Seal Well: Cover with plastic wrap for refrigeration or use an airtight container for freezing.
- Label (Optional): Add a date for tracking freshness.
Reheating:
- Preheat: Oven or air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Spacing: Evenly arrange sticks on a baking sheet or in an air fryer basket.
- Reheat: 8-10 mins in the oven or 5-7 mins in the air fryer.
- Flip (Optional): For oven reheating, flip halfway for even crispiness.
- Check Temperature: Ensure internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy crispy mozzarella sticks right away.
Common Queries on this Giant Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
The frequently asked questions along with their brief responses will enhance your comprehension of the Giant Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
1. Can I freeze the mozzarella sticks before frying?
Yes, freezing them for at least 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during frying.
2. How long does it take to fry the giant mozzarella sticks?
Approximately 2 minutes at 350°F for a golden brown perfection.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Certainly, but mozzarella works best for that classic gooey texture.
4. Do I have to make the marinara sauce from scratch?
No, you can use store-bought marinara, but the homemade version adds a special touch.
5. Can I bake the mozzarella sticks instead of frying?
While frying gives the best results, baking is an option at 375°F until golden brown.
6. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking during frying?
Double-coat the sticks during the dredging process to create a secure seal.
7. Can I prepare the Giant Mozzarella Sticks Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can store them in the freezer and reheat for later consumption.
8. What other dipping sauces pair well with these mozzarella sticks?
Aside from marinara, try ranch, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
9. How do I store leftover mozzarella sticks?
Cool to room temperature, store in a single layer, and freeze or refrigerate in an airtight container.
10. Can I reheat mozzarella sticks in the microwave?
It’s not recommended, as the microwave can make them soggy; use an oven or air fryer for a crispy finish.
There you have it – foot-long mozzarella sticks that redefine the meaning of cheesy indulgence. These giant mozzarella sticks are not just a feast for the eyes but a true delight for your taste buds.
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