Mozzarella Cheese Sticks from White Castle feature golden, crispy breaded mozzarella sticks with a gooey, melted cheese center, served hot for a satisfying crunchy and cheesy snack.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Fry basket
- Tongs
- Sheet pan or tray
- Paper towels
- Thermometer
- Serving basket or dish
Ingredients
- 16 oz (450g) mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
When preparing mozzarella cheese sticks, ensure the cheese sticks are thoroughly chilled before breading to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying. Use Italian-style breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley to achieve the authentic White Castle flavor. Maintain the vegetable oil at 350degF (175degC) for optimal crispiness without overcooking. You can use all-purpose flour for the initial coating, then dip in an egg and milk mixture before coating with the seasoned breadcrumbs for a sturdy, crunchy crust. Enjoy making your own Mozzarella Cheese Sticks from White Castle copycat menu for a deliciously cheesy snack experience.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oil in deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a sheet pan or tray with paper towels.
- In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.
- In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley.
- Dredge mozzarella sticks in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip coated cheese sticks in egg mixture.
- Roll cheese sticks in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Repeat egg and breadcrumb steps for a thicker coating if desired.
- Place breaded sticks on tray and chill in freezer for 30–60 minutes.
- Place sticks carefully in fry basket.
- Fry in batches for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove with tongs and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot in a serving basket or dish.
Substitution
Mozzarella Cheese Sticks from White Castle copycat recipes offer a crispy exterior with a warm, gooey cheese center that you can easily recreate at home. If you don't have Italian-style breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs mixed with dried oregano, basil, and Parmesan cheese make a great substitute. When frying, maintain the oil temperature between 350degF to 375degF using a thermometer to ensure crispy sticks without excess oil absorption. You can bake the sticks at 425degF for 10-12 minutes as a healthier alternative to deep frying, but be sure to turn them halfway through for even crispiness. Keep paper towels ready to drain excess oil right after frying to maintain the perfect crunchy texture for your snack.
Tips
Ensure the oil temperature stays consistently at 350degF (175degC) to achieve perfect crispiness without melting the cheese too quickly. Chilling the breaded mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes prevents the cheese from oozing out during frying. Use a thermometer to monitor oil heat and tongs to handle hot sticks safely, avoiding burns or splatters. Your final serving should be hot to enjoy the ideal combination of crunchy coating and gooey melted cheese inside.
Nutritions
Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are a calorie-dense snack primarily due to their deep-fried breading and melted cheese center, with a typical serving containing around 300-400 calories. Each stick provides a good amount of protein from the mozzarella cheese, approximately 6-8 grams per serving, contributing to muscle repair and satiety. The Italian-style breadcrumbs combined with garlic and onion powders add flavor but also contribute carbohydrates and dietary fiber in smaller amounts. You can enjoy this crunchy snack while being mindful of its fat and sodium content, both elevated from frying oil and seasoning, which should be moderated within a balanced diet.
Storage
To store leftover mozzarella cheese sticks, place them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture and keep the coating crispy. Refrigerate your mozzarella sticks and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and taste. Avoid freezing after frying, as this can compromise the texture and result in a soggy coating upon reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
For a flavor twist, substitute Italian-style breadcrumbs with panko mixed with smoked paprika and cayenne pepper to add extra crunch and a smoky, spicy kick. You can replace mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese for a different melt and taste experience. Instead of deep frying, bake the sticks in a preheated oven at 400degF (200degC) for 10-12 minutes for a healthier alternative. Your cheese sticks will maintain their gooey center if you freeze them for at least 45 minutes before cooking.
Allergies
Mozzarella Cheese Sticks contain common allergens such as dairy from the mozzarella cheese and eggs used in the batter, which might trigger reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. The breading includes wheat-based all-purpose flour and Italian-style breadcrumbs, posing a risk for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. It's important to check ingredient labels carefully and consider cross-contamination risks if you have severe food allergies.
Why this recipe?
Mozzarella Cheese Sticks from White Castle are beloved for their perfectly crispy golden exterior and gooey, melted cheese center that offers a satisfying contrast in texture. The seasoning blend adds a flavorful kick that complements the mild cheese, making each bite irresistible. Your craving for a tasty snack can be easily satisfied by recreating this menu item at home, allowing you to control the ingredients and achieve the ideal cheese stick experience. This copycat recipe offers a cost-effective and customizable alternative to enjoy a favorite White Castle treat anytime.