Mozzarella Sticks from Applebee's feature gooey, melted mozzarella cheese breaded and fried to golden perfection, served with a side of tangy marinara sauce for a crispy, cheesy appetizer experience.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Shallow dishes (for breading)
- Tongs
- Baking sheet (for prepping or chilling sticks)
- Deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot (for frying)
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Paper towels (for draining)
- Plate or serving platter
- Sauce bowl/cup (for marinara)
- Knife (for cutting cheese sticks)
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (for serving)
Using high-quality mozzarella cheese sticks ensures they melt perfectly without becoming too runny during frying. Italian-style breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese and herbs create a flavorful and crispy coating. Whisk the eggs with milk to help the flour and breadcrumbs adhere evenly to each stick for the ideal texture. Vegetable oil should be heated to around 350degF (175degC) to achieve a golden, crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil. You can enjoy these Mozzarella Sticks from Applebee's copycat menu as a delicious appetizer that closely mimics the restaurant's signature dish.
Instructions
- Cut mozzarella cheese into sticks if not pre-cut.
- Set up a breading station: flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs mixed with milk in another, and breadcrumbs combined with Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs in a third.
- Dredge each cheese stick in flour, tapping off excess.
- Dip floured stick into egg mixture, coating completely.
- Roll stick in breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Repeat egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
- Place breaded sticks on a baking sheet and chill in the freezer for at least 30–60 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry mozzarella sticks in batches until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes.
- Remove using a slotted spoon or spider strainer; drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with marinara sauce in a sauce bowl/cup.
Substitution
Mozzarella Sticks from Applebee's copycat menu deliver that classic crispy exterior with melted cheese inside, crafted to mimic the restaurant favorite. You can substitute Italian-style breadcrumbs with panko for an extra crunchy texture or use gluten-free alternatives if needed. If a deep fryer is unavailable, frying in a heavy-bottomed skillet with enough oil to cover the sticks works well. For a baked variation, chill the breaded sticks on a baking sheet before baking at 400degF (200degC) until golden and melted inside. Serving with tangy marinara sauce enhances the flavor, but ranch dressing also pairs nicely if preferred.
Tips
Your mozzarella sticks need to chill in the freezer for at least 30-60 minutes before frying; this helps the coating set and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking out. Use a thermometer to keep the oil temperature steady at 350degF (175degC), as too low heat will make sticks greasy, and too high can burn the coating before the cheese melts. Double coating with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs ensures a crispy crust that holds the cheese well during frying. Drain your fried sticks on paper towels immediately after cooking to avoid sogginess and preserve their crunchy texture.
Nutritions
Mozzarella sticks from Applebee's typically provide a rich source of calcium and protein from the gooey mozzarella cheese, essential for your bone health and muscle function. The breading, which includes Italian-style breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, adds carbohydrates and additional protein, while the frying process significantly increases the calorie and fat content due to oil absorption. A serving with marinara sauce offers vitamins A and C from the tomatoes but also contributes extra sugar and sodium. Consuming these sticks occasionally can fit into a balanced diet, but be mindful of portion size to manage calorie intake effectively.
Storage
Store leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture and keep them crisp. Refrigerate for up to 2 days and reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375degF (190degC) to restore their golden, crispy texture. To maintain the best flavor and consistency, avoid microwaving as it may result in soggy breading and unevenly melted cheese.
Variation or Alternatives
For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour and Italian-style breadcrumbs with gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs. You can enhance flavor by adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist. Instead of frying, bake the mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 425degF (220degC) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway for a healthier alternative. Your choice of dipping sauce can also vary; try ranch dressing or a spicy sriracha mayo for a different taste experience.
Allergies
Mozzarella sticks contain dairy from the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs include gluten, posing a risk for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Your exposure to egg and milk in the batter may also cause allergies, so it's important to check ingredient lists and consult Applebee's for potential cross-contact during preparation.
Why this recipe?
Mozzarella Sticks from Applebee's restaurant are beloved for their crispy golden breading and perfectly melted, stretchy cheese center that delivers a satisfying crunch and creamy texture in every bite. The dipping marinara sauce enhances the flavor profile by adding a tangy and savory contrast, making it a popular appetizer among guests. Trying to make the copycat version at home lets you customize seasoning and freshness to your taste while recreating the restaurant-quality snack cost-effectively. Your homemade version can rival the restaurant's iconic Mozzarella Sticks with fresh ingredients and an authentic cooking method.