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)
Free Keto Meal Plan : KETO DIET PLAN FOR BEGINNERS STEP BY STEP GUIDE
Instructions:
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- For Frying:
- 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! 🧀✨
Free Keto Meal Plan : KETO DIET PLAN FOR BEGINNERS STEP BY STEP GUIDE