how long to bake mozzarella sticks

To bake mozzarella sticks, follow these steps for a crispy and delicious result:

Materials Needed:

• Mozzarella sticks (frozen or homemade)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or a wire rack
• Oven

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) for a standard bake or 425°F (220°C) for a crisper texture.

2. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on it to allow air circulation, which helps in making the sticks crispy.

3. Arrange the Mozzarella Sticks: Place the mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow even cooking.

4. Baking Time:

   • For frozen mozzarella sticks, bake for 5-10 minutes.
   • For homemade mozzarella sticks, bake for 8-12 minutes.
   • If your mozzarella sticks are thicker, increase the time closer to the higher end of the range.

5. Flip Halfway: After half the baking time, flip the mozzarella sticks to ensure even crispiness on both sides.

6. Check for Crispiness: After the recommended time, check if the breading is crispy and the cheese is melted. If not, bake for a few more minutes.

7. Optional Broiling: For an extra crispy finish, place the sticks under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

8. Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

This method ensures a healthier, crispy alternative to frying while maintaining the gooey cheese inside. Enjoy your baked mozzarella sticks!