When the weekend rolls around, I find myself craving something indulgent and fun to share with family and friends. That’s when I turn to my crispy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella! Picture this: as the cheese fries to perfection on the griddle, the aroma of sizzling panko wafts through the air, making everyone in the kitchen take notice. This delightful appetizer brings the perfect balance of crunch and gooey cheese, paired with a homemade marinara sauce that takes it over the top.
Not only is this recipe a crowd-pleaser, but it also elevates your usual snack game from mundane to memorable, all while being surprisingly easy to whip up! Whether you’re planning a cozy movie night or a festive gathering, these golden mozzarella sticks promise to impress. Let’s dive into this straightforward recipe that’s sure to be a hit!
Why is Blackstone Fried Mozzarella a Must-Try?
Crispy Delight: The panko crust creates a satisfying crunch that complements the gooey cheese inside, making each bite irresistibly enjoyable.
Easy Preparation: You don’t need professional kitchen skills to achieve restaurant-quality results! The process is simple and allows for quick assembly.
Awesome Dipping Sauce: Paired with the homemade marinara, each mozzarella stick offers a burst of flavor that elevates your snacking experience.
Versatile Serving: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, everyone will love it!
Quick Cooking: With only minutes on the Blackstone griddle, you’ll have golden-brown cheesy goodness ready in no time.
Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Ingredients
Get ready to indulge in this delightful appetizer!
For the Mozzarella:
- Fresh Mozzarella – Use high-quality mozzarella for the creamiest texture and best melting properties.
- Flour (½ cup) – Acts as a base layer for the breading, helping the other ingredients adhere perfectly.
- Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon) – Adds a fragrant flavor to the coating; you can substitute with onion powder if you’re in a pinch.
- Large Egg (1, beaten) – Works as a binder, keeping all the delicious components together.
- Milk (2 tablespoons) – Enhances the richness of your egg wash; any milk variety, whether dairy or non-dairy, will do!
For the Crunchy Coating:
- Panko Breadcrumbs (2 cups) – Essential for that extra crispy texture; regular breadcrumbs may be used, but expect a softer crunch.
- Olive Oil (½ cup + 1 tablespoon) – This golden oil is crucial for frying, resulting in a beautifully browned, flavorful crust.
For the Homemade Marinara Sauce:
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Infuses aromatic depth into your sauce, making it a delicious counterpart to mozzarella.
- Tomato Puree (1 cup) – Forms the rich flavor base of your marinara; for added sweetness, consider using crushed tomatoes.
- Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
- Onion Powder (½ teaspoon) – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to complement the garlic.
- Pepper (¼ teaspoon) – A pinch of black pepper provides a hint of warmth.
- Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon) – Optional for those who enjoy a little kick of heat in their marinara.
Get ready to enjoy your Blackstone Fried Mozzarella—each bite will take you on a delicious journey!
How to Make Blackstone Fried Mozzarella
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Set Up Breading Station: Start by mixing flour and garlic powder in one bowl. In a second bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk. Finally, place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl—this is your crispy coating!
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Bread Mozzarella: Take your fresh mozzarella rounds and dip each into the flour mixture first, ensuring an even coating. Next, immerse it in the egg wash, followed by the panko. Arrange the breaded mozzarella sticks on a parchment-covered baking sheet.
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Chill Cheese: Pop the coated mozzarella into the freezer for about 1 hour until they are solid. This chilling step is key to preventing excessive melting during frying!
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Prepare Marinara: In a saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, then pour in the tomato puree and seasonings. Let it simmer gently while you fry the cheese.
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Preheat Griddle: Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium and coat it with a drizzle of olive oil to ensure a non-stick surface.
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Fry Mozzarella: Once the griddle is hot, carefully place the frozen, breaded mozzarella sticks on it. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Serve: Remove the fried mozzarella from the griddle and serve immediately, paired with your warm homemade marinara sauce for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil for an aromatic touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Blackstone Fried Mozzarella sticks are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bread the mozzarella and freeze it for up to 24 hours; simply freeze the coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. The homemade marinara can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat the sauce gently before serving. When you’re ready to cook, heat your Blackstone griddle and fry the frozen mozzarella sticks for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This way, you’ll have delicious, crispy mozzarella ready with minimal effort, making busy weeknights a breeze!
Expert Tips for Blackstone Fried Mozzarella
• Chill Thoroughly: Ensure mozzarella sticks are well-frozen before frying to keep them from melting too quickly. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior.
• Don’t Skip the Panko: Panko breadcrumbs are key for a crunchy texture. Regular breadcrumbs won’t give you the same delightful crispiness, so stick to panko for the best results.
• Monitor Temperature: Cooking at the right temperature is essential. If your mozzarella isn’t browning, increase the heat slightly. Conversely, reduce the heat if they’re browning too quickly.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality fresh mozzarella for the best melting texture. Inexpensive alternatives may not achieve that gooey, cheesy bite we all crave.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to enhance the marinara by adding fresh herbs or spices. Mixing in extra ingredients can elevate the dish in exciting, personalized ways!
Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe as you explore delightful twists that elevate your Blackstone Fried Mozzarella!
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Flavored Mozzarella: Swap fresh mozzarella for herb-infused or smoked varieties for an exciting flavor explosion. Each bite will offer a new dimension that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko for a crunchy coating that everyone can enjoy. You’ll still achieve that delicious crispiness, making it a perfect treat for gluten-sensitive diners.
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Spicy Marinara: Add more red pepper flakes to your sauce for a tantalizing kick. This twist heightens the dish’s flavor profile, bringing out the vibrant essence of each ingredient.
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Cheese Blend: Combine mozzarella with cheddar or pepper jack for an irresistible cheesy mix. The added flavors will create a delightful surprise in each stick!
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Zesty Seasoning: Incorporate Italian seasoning or Cajun spices into the breadcrumbs for an exciting flavor boost. This simple addition can transform your dish and impress your guests.
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Baked Version: For a healthier twist, bake the panko-coated mozzarella at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll still get a lovely crunch without all the frying!
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Herb Garnish: Top with fresh basil or parsley after frying for a burst of color and fresh flavor. This addition not only brightens the dish but enhances its visual appeal, making it look gourmet.
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Stuffed Mozzarella: Create a pocket in each mozzarella piece to stuff with jalapeños or sun-dried tomatoes before breading. This twist adds an unexpected flavor surprise with every bite!
Storage Tips for Blackstone Fried Mozzarella
Fridge: Store leftover Blackstone Fried Mozzarella in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’re good for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes or on the Blackstone griddle until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.
Serving Fresh: Enjoy best when served hot and freshly made, with warm homemade marinara sauce for dipping!
What to Serve with Blackstone Fried Mozzarella?
Get ready to create a feast that harmonizes delicious flavors and textures around your cheesy masterpiece!
- Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery bread is perfect for dipping and offers a satisfying side to the crispy cheese sticks.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a lovely contrast to the rich mozzarella. Pairing fresh greens elevates the whole meal!
- Spicy Chicken Wings: Kick up the flavor with some spicy wings; the heat balances the gooey mozzarella and marinara beautifully.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tang of coleslaw complement the fried mozzarella perfectly, adding freshness to each bite.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers provide a unique twist alongside the mozzarella sticks, with flavors that make every bite intriguing. These can add depth and variety to your meal.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink such as lemonade or iced tea rounds out the meal, cutting through the richness with a citrusy note.
- Dessert: Consider serving chocolate chip cookies or mini cheesecakes to end on a sweet note. The balance of savory and sweet will have your guests raving!
Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting fresh mozzarella?
Absolutely! When choosing fresh mozzarella, look for a firm texture and a shiny, smooth surface. It should be white or off-white without dark spots. For the best flavor and quality, opt for mozzarella packed in water or brine.
How should I store leftover Blackstone Fried Mozzarella?
Store leftover Blackstone Fried Mozzarella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheating in the oven or on the griddle will help maintain that delightful crispiness—just avoid using the microwave, which might leave them soggy.
Can I freeze Blackstone Fried Mozzarella?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, lay the fried mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or use the Blackstone griddle to restore that crunch!
What if my mozzarella sticks are browning too quickly while frying?
If your mozzarella sticks are browning too fast, it’s best to reduce the heat on your Blackstone griddle. This will allow the insides to warm through without burning the outside. Cooking them at a controlled medium heat is essential for achieving that perfect cheesy center!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
For those with gluten intolerances, you can substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs without sacrificing that ideal crunch. Additionally, always check the mozzarella labels for any potential allergens if you’re serving these to guests with dietary restrictions.
Delicious Blackstone Fried Mozzarella with Homemade Marinara
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set Up Breading Station: Mix flour and garlic powder in one bowl. In a second bowl, whisk beaten egg and milk. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Bread Mozzarella: Dip each mozzarella round into the flour mixture, then egg wash, and finally panko. Arrange on a parchment-covered baking sheet.
- Chill Cheese: Freeze the coated mozzarella for about 1 hour until solid.
- Prepare Marinara: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a saucepan. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add tomato puree and seasonings. Let simmer.
- Preheat Griddle: Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium and coat with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Fry Mozzarella: Place frozen, breaded mozzarella sticks on the hot griddle. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Serve: Remove fried mozzarella from the griddle and serve immediately with warm marinara sauce.