Keto MOZZARELLA STICK Recipe

Keto MOZZARELLA STICK Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks (cut in half for smaller sticks)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 cup crushed pork rinds (or an additional 1/4 cup almond flour for a nut-only option)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Avocado oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)

 


Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cheese Sticks:
    • Cut each string cheese stick in half to create smaller portions.
    • Place the cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 1 hour (this prevents melting during cooking).
  2. Set Up Breading Stations:
    • In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
    • In another shallow bowl, mix the almond flour, crushed pork rinds, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks:
    • Dip each frozen cheese stick into the egg mixture, then roll it in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to coat.
    • Repeat the process for a second coating to ensure an even, crispy crust.
    • Place the coated sticks back on the baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes.
  4. Cook the Mozzarella Sticks:
    • For Frying:
      • Heat avocado oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Test the oil by dropping a small piece of breading in; it should sizzle immediately.
      • Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for 1–2 minutes until golden brown. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
    • For Baking:
      • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray.
      • Bake for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve hot with sugar-free marinara sauce or your favorite keto-friendly dipping sauce.

Tips:

  • Prevent Melting: Always freeze the cheese sticks after breading to ensure they hold their shape during cooking.
  • Extra Crunchy Coating: Add a pinch of xanthan gum to the breading mix for a firmer crust.
  • Storage: Leftover cooked sticks can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in an air fryer or oven.

This Keto Mozzarella Sticks recipe delivers all the gooey, crispy, cheesy goodness you love in a snack while keeping it low-carb. Perfect for any occasion, these are sure to become a family favorite! 🧀✨