Hooters Cheese Sticks feature golden, crispy battered mozzarella sticks served with a side of tangy marinara sauce, delivering a warm, gooey, and crunchy appetizer perfect for sharing.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Fry baskets
- Tongs
- Sauce cups
- Serving plates or appetizer baskets
- Paper towels or draining rack
- Mixing bowls
- Freezer (for storing frozen cheese sticks)
- Ladle or spoon (for marinara sauce)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) mozzarella cheese sticks (frozen)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups Italian-style bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Using frozen mozzarella cheese sticks is essential for achieving the ideal gooey center and crispy exterior after frying. Ensure the bread crumbs are Italian-style and well-seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor complexity. Vegetable oil must be heated to an optimal frying temperature to avoid soggy or burnt cheese sticks. Marinara sauce should be fresh or homemade to complement the savory batter perfectly. Your Hooters Cheese Sticks copycat recipe will deliver the same golden, crispy texture and delicious flavor as the restaurant classic.
Instructions
- Preheat deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Set up three mixing bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, then dip in egg, and roll in seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for an extra-crispy layer.
- Transfer coated sticks to a freezer; freeze for at least 30 minutes if not already frozen.
- Carefully lower cheese sticks in batches into the preheated oil using fry baskets or tongs.
- Fry for 2–3 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Remove cheese sticks and drain on paper towels or a draining rack.
- Heat marinara sauce in a saucepan; ladle into sauce cups.
- Serve cheese sticks hot with marinara sauce on serving plates or appetizer baskets.
Substitution
Hooters Cheese Sticks from the copycat menu offer a deliciously crunchy exterior with gooey mozzarella inside, making them a beloved appetizer. You can substitute Italian-style bread crumbs with panko mixed with dried Italian herbs to achieve a similar texture and flavor. If deep frying is not an option, baking the cheese sticks at 425degF (220degC) for 10-12 minutes can give a crispy alternative with less oil. Use any mild marinara sauce available or homemade sauce with garlic, tomatoes, and basil to match the tangy accompaniment. When handling frozen cheese sticks, avoid thawing before frying to prevent cheese leakage and maintain the perfect crispy texture.
Tips
Make sure your mozzarella sticks stay frozen until just before frying to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking. Maintain oil temperature consistently at 350degF (175degC) for perfectly crispy, golden batter without absorbing excess oil. Double-dipping in egg and breadcrumbs creates an extra-crispy coating that holds up well in hot oil. Use tongs or fry baskets carefully when lowering sticks into oil to avoid splashes and ensure even frying.
Nutritions
Hooters Cheese Sticks provide a rich source of protein and calcium from the mozzarella cheese, essential for muscle repair and bone health. The breading and frying process adds carbohydrates and fats, contributing to higher calorie content, so moderation is key for your dietary balance. Seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley supply trace vitamins and antioxidants, enhancing nutritional value slightly. When paired with marinara sauce, you also get a modest amount of vitamins A and C from the tomato base, supporting your immune system.
Storage
Store leftover Hooters Cheese Sticks in an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. For longer storage, freeze the cheese sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. Reheat by baking in an oven at 375degF (190degC) until crispy and heated through to preserve the gooey mozzarella and crunchy coating for your next snack or appetizer.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute Italian-style bread crumbs with panko for an even crunchier texture. Try adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix for a spicy twist. Instead of deep frying, bake the cheese sticks at 400degF (200degC) for 12-15 minutes for a healthier alternative. Use a basil-infused marinara sauce or add a side of ranch dressing for a flavor variation.
Allergies
Hooters Cheese Sticks contain common allergens such as dairy from mozzarella cheese and eggs in the batter, which may trigger reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. The all-purpose flour and bread crumbs used for coating may also contain gluten, posing a risk for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. You should carefully review the ingredients and consult with your healthcare provider if you have known food allergies.
Why this recipe?
Hooters Cheese Sticks are popular for their crispy golden exterior and gooey melted cheese filling that creates a satisfying flavor and texture contrast. The blend of mozzarella cheese with a perfectly seasoned breadcrumb coating appeals to those seeking a savory, indulgent appetizer. You can recreate this delicious snack at home with simple ingredients, allowing for customization of seasoning and cheese types to match your taste. Making a copycat version saves money while delivering the same crave-worthy satisfaction found at Hooters.