These crispy fried mozzarella sticks are a fun treat that everyone loves! Cooked on a Blackstone grill, they get a perfect golden-brown outside with gooey cheese inside.
I can’t help but smile when I pull these off the grill. They’re great for sharing, or you know, for keeping all to myself! 😄 Serve them with marinara sauce and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Mozzarella: This is the star of your dish! Look for low-moisture mozzarella for a firmer texture during frying. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, string cheese works as a convenient substitute.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives an amazing crunch! If panko isn’t available, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture may be less crispy. For gluten-free options, try gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Eggs: Eggs help the breadcrumbs stick. If you need an egg substitute, try using unsweetened applesauce, mashed banana, or a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) for a vegan option.
Garlic Powder & Italian Seasoning: These add flavor to the breading. Feel free to mix it up! Try adding some paprika or oregano for a different twist. Herbs de Provence could also work well here!
How Do I Perfectly Bread Mozzarella for Frying?
Breading can be tricky, but it’s all about the layering! Here’s a simple way to ensure your mozzarella sticks turn out perfectly crispy:
- Start with chilled mozzarella. This helps maintain its shape during frying.
- Dredge in flour first. It creates a moisture barrier to keep the cheese from leaking out.
- Don’t rush the egg dip! Make sure the mozzarella is fully coated for crispiness.
- For double breading, repeat the egg and breadcrumbs. It adds a great crunch!
Keeping the oil hot is key. Use enough to cover the sticks when frying. This keeps the cheese inside while getting that nice, golden color.
Easy Crispy Fried Mozzarella on Blackstone Grill
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into 1/3-inch thick pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying on the grill
- Marinara sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 10 minutes to prepare, plus about 15 minutes for cooking. You’ll spend a little time getting everything ready, but once you’re on the grill, these delicious mozzarella sticks will be ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Mozzarella:
Start by slicing the fresh mozzarella into about 1/3-inch thick slices. Lay them out on a paper towel-lined plate, then place another paper towel on top to absorb any excess moisture. This step is important to keep the cheese from melting too much while frying. Let the cheese chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
2. Set up Breading Stations:
While the mozzarella is chilling, set up your breading stations. In one shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. In another, whisk together the eggs and water until well combined. In a third dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to make a tasty coating.
3. Bread the Mozzarella:
Take each slice of mozzarella and first dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture until fully coated. Finally, coat it completely with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, you can repeat the egg dip and breadcrumb coating once more for a double breading layer.
4. Preheat the Blackstone Grill:
Now, it’s time to fire up your Blackstone grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat and add a good amount of oil to the grill surface so everything is nicely coated. This oil will help achieve that golden-brown crust.
5. Cook the Mozzarella:
Carefully place the breaded mozzarella slices onto the hot, oiled grill. Allow them to cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip them gently to make sure they don’t break apart.
6. Drain and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the fried mozzarella from the grill and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will absorb any excess oil. Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
7. Serve:
Serve these delicious mozzarella sticks warm alongside a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy fried mozzarella made perfectly on your Blackstone grill!
Dig in and enjoy the cheesy goodness! 🧀
FAQ for Easy Crispy Fried Mozzarella on Blackstone Grill
Can I Use Frozen Mozzarella Sticks?
You can, but it’s recommended to use fresh mozzarella for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen mozzarella sticks, there’s no need to chill; just follow the recipe as directed, adjusting the cooking time as needed since frozen cheese will take longer to heat through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fried mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back on the grill or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bread the mozzarella slices a few hours ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. Just be sure to cover them well so they don’t dry out. Cook them fresh for the best texture.
What Can I Serve with Fried Mozzarella Sticks?
Marinara sauce is a classic dip, but you can also enjoy them with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a kick. Pair them with a simple salad or roasted vegetables to create a complete meal!
