Homemade Gluten Free Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
These Homemade Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate crispy, cheesy appetizer that tastes even better than your favorite restaurant version. Made with a perfectly seasoned gluten-free breading and filled with melty, stretchy mozzarella, this recipe proves that gluten-free comfort food can still deliver incredible flavor and texture.
Print Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice flour
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp fresh ground pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic granules
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup dried GF breadcrumbs
- 1 8 ounce mozzarella cheese block
Instructions
Prepare the Breading Station
- Line up three shallow plates or bowls to create an easy dredging station. Keeping everything organized helps ensure each mozzarella stick is evenly coated.
- Plate 1 (Flour Mixture): Add the white rice flour, dried basil, fresh ground pepper, garlic granules, and salt. Whisk thoroughly until the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This seasoned flour layer helps the egg coating stick while adding flavor to every bite.
- Plate 2 (Egg Wash): Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl and whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy. A well-mixed egg wash helps create a strong coating that keeps the cheese from leaking while frying.
- Plate 3 (Breadcrumbs): Pour the gluten-free breadcrumbs into a third shallow dish. If the breadcrumbs appear coarse, you can lightly crush them with your hands for better coverage and adhesion.
Cut the Mozzarella
- Slice the mozzarella block into 12 evenly sized sticks. Try to keep the sticks uniform in thickness so they cook evenly and melt at the same rate.
Coat the Mozzarella Sticks
- Working with one stick at a time, follow this double-coating process to create a sturdy, crispy coating:
- Roll the mozzarella stick in the flour mixture, coating the entire cheese stick completely. Gently shake off any excess flour.
- Dip the floured stick into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off.
- Roll the stick back into the flour mixture for a second coating. This extra layer helps prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
- Dip the stick into the egg wash again.
- Finally, roll the stick in the gluten-free breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs stick and fully coat the cheese.
- Place each coated stick onto a cooling rack as you finish them. Using a rack instead of a plate prevents the coating from becoming soggy.
Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks
- Transfer the coated mozzarella sticks to the freezer and chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Freezing is a crucial step that helps the coating set and keeps the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
Heat the Oil
- When ready to cook, pour olive oil into a heavy-bottom skillet or deep pan until it reaches about 1½ to 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 325°F to 350°F. Using a thermometer helps maintain the correct temperature and prevents greasy or undercooked mozzarella sticks.
Fry the Mozzarella Sticks
- Carefully place a few frozen mozzarella sticks into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for about 30 seconds on the first side, or until golden brown.
- Gently flip using tongs and fry for another 30 seconds until evenly crisp and golden.
- Work in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
Drain and Cool
- Remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil and place them back on the cooling rack. Place a paper towel underneath the rack to catch excess oil drippings while keeping the coating crisp.
- Allow the sticks to cool for a few minutes before serving, as the cheese inside will be very hot.
Servings: 12