Keto Mozzarella Sticks Recipe: A Crunchy and Cheesy Low-Carb Indulgence
Craving a bite that boasts a crispy shell, a luscious, melty core, and a carb-conscious twist? These keto mozzarella sticks are your ultimate answer. This recipe marries robust flavors with a ketogenic approach, ensuring pure satisfaction without straying from your dietary path. Here’s a detailed guide to crafting these mouthwatering delights.
Time Breakdown
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Rest/Freezing Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
For the Mozzarella Sticks:
12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
2 large eggs
1 cup almond flour
½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano and basil)
½ teaspoon paprika (optional for added depth)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup crushed pork rinds (optional, for extra crunch)
Oil for frying (avocado or coconut oil recommended for keto)
For Dipping:
Sugar-free marinara sauce or ranch dressing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Sticks
Open the string cheese and cut each stick in half, for a total of 24 bite-sized pieces.
Place the cheese pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. This is an important step so they don’t melt too fast when frying. - Assemble the Coating Station
In a shallow dish, whisk the eggs until smooth.
In a different bowl, mix together almond flour, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and black pepper. If using crushed pork rinds, add those in for crunch. - Bread the Mozzarella Sticks
Get out the frozen cheese sticks.
Dip each cheese stick into the beaten eggs. Make sure they are fully coated. Let the excess egg drip off.
Dip the cheese stick into the almond flour mixture. Press gently onto the cheese stick to make an even layer.
For an ultra-crispy finish repeat the egg and dry coating process.
Transfer coated sticks back to the freezer for another 30 minutes to set crust.
Cooking Methods
Option 1: Deep Frying
Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Fry in batches, a few sticks at a time, so they are not overcrowding. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or golden and crispy.
Drain on paper towels.
Option 2: Air Frying
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Line the cheese sticks up in a single layer in the fryer basket and mist lightly with avocado or olive oil.
Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and golden. Be careful not to overcook.
Option 3: Baking
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and lightly mist with oil.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Storage Tips
Storage Tips:
Storing & Reheating Mozzarella Sticks
Fridge:
If you don’t devour all the mozzarella sticks in one sitting (no judgments if you do), put leftovers in a closed container in the refrigerator for 3 days. To remain crunchy, fry in the oven or air fryer; using the microwave means your cheese ends up chewy and rubbery.
Freezer:
Want to prep ahead? Freeze them before frying! Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When hunger strikes, fry them straight from frozen—no thawing needed for perfectly melty, crispy mozzarella goodness.
Serving Suggestions:
Dipping Delights: Elevate Your Mozzarella Sticks
Now, let’s get to the good part—eating! Mozzarella sticks almost beg for a decadent, savory sauce to elevate them to the next level. Here are some appetizing options that will make each crispy, cheesy bite pop:
1. Classic Marinara Sauce
A classic combination! Use sugar-free marinara or create your own by heating crushed tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, and Italian herbs. Add some red pepper flakes for an added kick.
2. Creamy Garlic Aioli
Mix the mayonnaise with minced garlic, a squeeze of lemon juice, and just a hint of Dijon mustard. This is quite a luxurious, tangy dip to pair with the crunch of sticks.
3. Spicy Sriracha Ranch
Throw in a drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce into the ranch dressing for a zesty, spicy kick. Just be sure to adjust the heat level for your taste.
4. Smoky Chipotle Mayo
Mix mayonnaise with adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers for a smoky, slightly sweet dip that adds depth to each bite.
5. Pesto Parmesan Dip
Mix together basil pesto with grated Parmesan and a splash of olive oil for a herby, cheesy delight that pairs beautifully with mozzarella sticks.
6. Buffalo Blue Cheese Sauce
Combine buffalo sauce with crumbled blue cheese and sour cream for a tangy, spicy dip that adds bold flavor to your snack.
7. Honey Mustard Twist (Keto-Friendly Version)
For a subtly sweet contrast, mix Dijon mustard with a keto-friendly sweetener and a splash of apple cider vinegar.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Stick)
Calories: 95
Protein: 6g
Fat: 7g
Net Carbs: 1g
