These Easy Healthy Mozzarella Sticks offer a delicious and guilt-free twist to the classic snack. With a simple list of ingredients and clear instructions, these homemade mozzarella sticks are perfect for those who are looking for a healthier alternative to the deep-fried versions commonly found in restaurants.

The recipe begins with a preparation phase, coating the mozzarella sticks with a seasoned flour mixture. The use of Italian-style bread crumbs, along with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt, adds a flavorful touch to the coating. This combination of spices not only enhances the taste but also provides a healthier option compared to traditional deep-frying methods.

The key step in ensuring the success of these mozzarella sticks is the freezing process. By freezing the breaded cheese sticks for at least 2 hours before cooking, the recipe ensures that the cheese stays intact during the cooking process. This clever technique prevents the cheese from overcooking or leaking out, allowing the outer coating to become golden and crispy.

For those with an air fryer, the recipe provides specific instructions for achieving the perfect result. Preheating the air fryer to 400 degrees and cooking the frozen mozzarella sticks for 5-7 minutes creates a crunchy exterior while keeping the cheese gooey and delicious on the inside. The use of nonstick cooking spray further enhances the crispiness.

Alternatively, the recipe includes oven directions for those without an air fryer. Preheating the oven to 425 degrees and baking the frozen mozzarella sticks for 10-12 minutes on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet results in golden-brown perfection. Again, a spray of nonstick cooking spray is recommended for achieving a crispy texture.

The nutritional information is provided, with the recipe stating that each mozzarella stick is 2-3 PersonalPoints™, the exact value depending on the individualized plan. For those following the Smartpoints system, the breakdown is given for Green, Blue, and Purple plans, catering to different dietary preferences.

In conclusion, these Easy Healthy Mozzarella Sticks are a delightful treat that combines the satisfaction of a classic snack with a healthier cooking approach. The freezing technique, air frying or baking options, and flavorful coating make this recipe a winner for those seeking a guilt-free indulgence. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a favorite dipping sauce, these mozzarella sticks are sure to be a hit.

Easy Healthy Mozzarella Sticks

Ingredients

  • 12 mozzarella sticks
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten with 1 Tbsp water
  • 1/3 cup Italian style bread crumbs – use gluten-free if needed
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika or smoked paprika 
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Place flour in the ziplock bag, whisk the egg in a small, shallow plate or dish, combine bread crumbs along with the seasonings in another small, shallow plate or dish.
  2. Put the cheese sticks in the ziplock bag with the flour. Gently toss the cheese sticks with flour. 
  3. Transfer the flour covered cheese sticks to the egg wash and completely coat the cheese stick with egg wash.
  4. Then coat each cheese stick in the bread crumbs and cover completely. 
  5. Place cheese sticks on a baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper.
  6. Freeze the cheese sticks on the baking sheet for at least 2 hours. The key is to freeze the cheese sticks before cooking, this ensures the cheese doesn’t overcook or leak out before the outer coating gets golden and crispy!
  • Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees.
  • Place frozen mozzarella sticks in a single layer, not touching. 
  • Spray the tops with nonstick cooking spray.
  • Cook for 5-7 minutes.

Oven Directions:

  • Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
  • Place frozen mozzarella sticks on a parchment paper lined baking sheet in a single layer. 
    Spray the tops with nonstick cooking spray.
  • Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. 
  • Enjoy immediately. These are best served warm. 
  • Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like my skinny ranch or this zero point marinara sauce.

Makes 12 mozzarella sticks 

2-3 PersonalPoints™ per mozzarella stick*

*This number shows the PersonalPoints™ range. The points will vary based on your individualized plan.

Notes

  • Smartpoints: GREEN: 3 smartpoint per stick BLUE/PURPLE: 2 smartpoints
  • It is important to freeze the breaded cheese sticks before cooking so the cheese doesn’t escape the breading during the cooking process.
  • Be sure to spray the tops with nonstick spray before cooking-this makes them crisper.