There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into a gooey, cheesy piece of heaven, perfectly encased in a crispy golden shell. Each chew releases a symphony of flavors that dance across your taste buds—crunchy outside, melty inside. What could be better than that?
I remember the first time I attempted to recreate these delightful Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks at home. I was convinced it would be a culinary disaster, with cheese oozing out everywhere and a mess that looked like a bomb went off in my kitchen. But much to my surprise (and relief), they turned out deliciously! My friends still tease me about the “Great Cheese Explosion,” but we all relished every cheesy bite.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This recipe stands out for its easy preparation that anyone can master, ensuring you won’t need a Michelin star to impress your friends. The unique flavor profile balances savory cheese with a crispy coating that’s simply irresistible. Plus, their stunning appearance will have everyone reaching for their phones to capture the moment before devouring them! Versatility is key here; feel free to customize these sticks with your favorite spices or dipping sauces to make them uniquely yours.
Ingredients for Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks
Here’s what you need for this delicious dish:
Complete Preparation Method Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks
Simply follow these easy steps to prepare this delicious meal:
Step 1: Prepare Your Cheese
Start by unwrapping your mozzarella string cheese and cutting each stick in half. This will give you perfectly sized portions that are just waiting to be coated and fried.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
In three shallow bowls, set up your work area: one bowl with all-purpose flour mixed with salt and pepper, another bowl containing beaten eggs (make sure they’re well mixed), and the last bowl filled with breadcrumbs combined with Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
Step 3: Coat Each Cheese Stick
Take each piece of mozzarella cheese and first coat it in the flour mixture; make sure it’s evenly covered. Then dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off before finally rolling it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Step 4: Freeze for Perfect Texture
Place the coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps keep them from melting too quickly when frying!
Step 5: Heat Your Oil
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about two inches of cooking oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). You can test it by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready!
Step 6: Fry Until Golden Brown
Carefully add your frozen mozzarella sticks into the hot oil in batches—don’t overcrowd! Fry them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them gently.
Once cooked, remove them from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy! Serve immediately alongside marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping joyfully into cheesy bliss!
Improving the Cooking Method
For the perfect Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks, freeze the cheese sticks for about an hour before frying. This helps them maintain their shape and ensures a gooey center while achieving a crispy exterior.
Decorate Your Dish with Your Personal Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional marinara sauce for a zesty ranch dressing or a spicy aioli. You could also sprinkle some Italian herbs on top for added flavor.
Smart Tips for Storage and Reheating
To keep your Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks crunchy, store them in an airtight container without sauce. Reheat in an oven to restore that delightful crispiness before serving.
Practical Chef Advice
One time, I made these Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks for friends during game night. The look on their faces as they took that first cheesy bite was absolutely priceless!
Conclusion for Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks
In just a few simple steps, you can enjoy the crispy, cheesy delight of Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks right in your own kitchen. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also offers a healthier alternative without compromising on flavor. Imagine biting into gooey cheese enveloped in a golden crust, perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce. Whether for game day snacks or a cozy night in, these mozzarella sticks are sure to impress. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients and experience this delightful treat today!
PrintCopycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks
Delicious copycat applebee’s mozzarella sticks recipe with detailed instructions and nutritional information.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Method: Fry
Ingredients
- 12 sticks mozzarella string cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Cooking oil for frying (canola or vegetable)
Instructions
- Unwrap the mozzarella string cheese and cut each stick in half.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour mixed with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs combined with Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
- Coat each cheese stick in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off, and finally roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
- Place the coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat about two inches of cooking oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add the frozen mozzarella sticks into the hot oil in batches, frying them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the cooked mozzarella sticks from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Notes
Store leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container for freshness.
Reheat in the oven for crispy texture.
Serve with marinara sauce and ranch.
Use whole milk mozzarella for creaminess.
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
FAQs
How do I store leftover Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks?
To store leftover Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I freeze Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks?
Yes, you can freeze Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks. After breading, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What dipping sauces pair well with Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks?
Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks pair wonderfully with various dipping sauces. Classic marinara sauce is a favorite choice, but you could also try ranch dressing or spicy buffalo sauce for added flavor. Experiment with different sauces to find your perfect match!
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
While mozzarella cheese is traditional for Copycat Applebee’s Mozzarella Sticks, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a twist. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well and complements the crispy crust for the best results!