Fried Mozzarella from TGI Friday's features golden, crispy breaded mozzarella sticks with a gooey, melted cheese center, served with a zesty marinara sauce for dipping, delivering a perfect harmony of crunchy exterior and creamy interior.
Equipments
- Deep fryer (or heavy-bottomed pot)
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Mixing bowls
- Shallow dishes (for breading)
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or wire rack
- Plate (for serving)
- Sauce pot (for marinara)
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 16 oz (450g) mozzarella cheese (block or string cheese)
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- For marinara sauce:
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt
- Black pepper
Using fresh mozzarella cheese in block form provides a better melt and texture compared to string cheese, ensuring gooeyness inside each fried stick. Italian-style breadcrumbs seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, and dried Italian herbs add a flavorful crunch to the coating, elevating the overall taste. Be sure to properly chill the breaded mozzarella sticks before frying to help maintain their shape and prevent cheese from leaking out during cooking. Vegetable oil with a high smoke point is essential for deep frying to achieve the perfect golden crisp without burning. Your homemade Fried Mozzarella sticks will closely mimic the irresistible, crispy, and creamy experience found on TGI Friday's copycat menu.
Instructions
- Cut mozzarella cheese into sticks.
- Set up breading stations with flour, eggs mixed with milk, and Italian breadcrumbs mixed with seasonings.
- Dredge cheese sticks in flour, then egg mixture, then breadcrumbs; repeat egg and breadcrumb steps for extra coating.
- Place breaded sticks on baking sheet lined with parchment/wire rack; freeze 1-2 hours.
- Heat 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 with slotted spoon.
- Drain on wire rack or paper towels.
- For marinara sauce: sauté minced garlic in olive oil, add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper; simmer until thickened.
- Serve fried mozzarella with warm marinara sauce.
Substitution
Fried Mozzarella from TGI Friday's copycat recipe delivers crispy, breaded sticks with a warm, melty cheese core paired with tangy marinara. If mozzarella sticks are hard to find, you can use string cheese or cut block mozzarella into sticks to maintain the creamy texture. Whole milk in the egg wash can be swapped with buttermilk for a richer flavor and better adhesion of breadcrumbs. Vegetable oil can be replaced with peanut or canola oil for frying, as they have a high smoke point ideal for deep frying. Your marinara sauce can be enhanced with fresh herbs if dried ones are unavailable, which will elevate the freshness of the dip.
Tips
Ensure mozzarella sticks are properly frozen before frying to prevent cheese from oozing out during cooking. Maintain oil temperature around 350degF (175degC) for optimal frying results and crispy coating. Use a wire rack instead of paper towels to drain excess oil, keeping the breading crispier. Your homemade marinara sauce should be simmered long enough to blend flavors and thicken for the perfect dipping experience.
Nutritions
Fried Mozzarella from TGI Friday's is rich in calcium and protein due to the high mozzarella cheese content, providing essential nutrients for bone health and muscle repair. The breading and frying process adds carbohydrates and fats, increasing calorie count and delivering a satisfying crunchy texture. The accompanying marinara sauce, made from crushed tomatoes and olive oil, contributes antioxidants like lycopene and healthy monounsaturated fats. You can enjoy this dish as an indulgent treat while balancing your overall dietary intake.
Storage
Store any leftover fried mozzarella sticks in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture and maintain crispiness. Refrigerate them promptly and consume within 2-3 days to ensure freshness and food safety. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore the crunchy exterior and gooey cheese center.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute part of the Italian-style breadcrumbs with panko for an extra crispy texture. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix for a subtle spicy kick. Instead of deep-frying, bake the coated mozzarella sticks on a wire rack at 425degF (220degC) for 10-12 minutes to reduce oil absorption. For a richer marinara, stir in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Allergies
Fried Mozzarella from TGI Friday's contains dairy, wheat, and eggs, which are common allergens that may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. The use of mozzarella cheese and whole milk introduces lactose, while breadcrumbs and flour include gluten-containing wheat. Your risk of allergic response increases if you have sensitivities to any of these ingredients, so proceed with caution if you have known food allergies.
Why this recipe?
The Fried Mozzarella at TGI Friday's is beloved for its perfectly melted, creamy cheese encased in a golden, crispy breading that delivers an irresistible combination of textures. This appetizer is often paired with a tangy marinara sauce, enhancing its flavor profile and making each bite more satisfying. You'll find that recreating this dish at home is worth the effort because it allows you to customize ingredients and enjoy a fresh, hot version without waiting. Mastering this copycat recipe brings restaurant-quality indulgence to your kitchen, impressing guests and satisfying cravings effortlessly.