TGI Fridays Mozzarella Sticks (Copycat Recipe)
TGI Fridays Mozzarella Sticks are so easy to make! Bread the cheese, freeze, and fry, then serve my copycat recipe with your favorite sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound block of mozzarella cheese cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk or whole milk
- 2 cups plain breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- salt and pepper to taste
- vegetable oil for frying
- marinara sauce for dipping
- garlic aioli for dipping (optional)
Instructions
- Set up a breading station: Place the flour in one shallow dish. In another dish, whisk together the eggs and milk. In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each mozzarella stick first in the flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally roll in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each stick is fully coated. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating. This will create a thicker, crunchier crust.
- Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- When ready to cook, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for about 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcook, as the cheese can burst out of the breading.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil, and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with marinara sauce and/or garlic aioli for dipping, enjoy!
Notes
Freezing the breaded mozzarella sticks before frying is crucial. This helps them hold their shape and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly when fried.
These are best enjoyed immediately after frying while the cheese is hot and melty.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some finely grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 10 minutes. The type of breadcrumbs you use can affect the texture of your mozzarella sticks. Panko breadcrumbs will give a crunchier texture, while regular breadcrumbs will give a more traditional texture. If you don't have a deep fryer, you can also fry these in a large skillet. Just ensure there's enough oil to fully submerge the sticks. Be careful when frying as the oil can splatter. Use long tongs or a slotted spoon to carefully turn and remove the sticks from the hot oil. You can prepare these in advance and keep them in the freezer. When ready to serve, just fry them straight from the freezer. No need to thaw. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to get them crispy again. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the breading soggy.
If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 10 minutes. The type of breadcrumbs you use can affect the texture of your mozzarella sticks. Panko breadcrumbs will give a crunchier texture, while regular breadcrumbs will give a more traditional texture. If you don't have a deep fryer, you can also fry these in a large skillet. Just ensure there's enough oil to fully submerge the sticks. Be careful when frying as the oil can splatter. Use long tongs or a slotted spoon to carefully turn and remove the sticks from the hot oil. You can prepare these in advance and keep them in the freezer. When ready to serve, just fry them straight from the freezer. No need to thaw. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to get them crispy again. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the breading soggy.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 | Calories: 177cal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 43mg | Sodium: 287mg | Sugar: 1g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 176mg | Iron: 1mg