Stuffing-Crusted Mozzarella Sticks Recipe Perfect for Holidays

Introduction

The holidays are all about indulgence, and there’s nothing more satisfying than warm, gooey mozzarella sticks straight from the oven. But these aren’t your ordinary mozzarella sticks—oh no, they’re coated in a crispy, golden layer of savory stuffing! The combination of melted cheese and herb-infused crust will make your taste buds dance with joy. I first stumbled upon this idea when brainstorming ways to repurpose leftover stuffing, and let me tell you, it was love at first bite.

This recipe has become a staple at our holiday gatherings, and it’s always the first appetizer to disappear. Not only are stuffing-crusted mozzarella sticks ridiculously delicious, but they’re also a fun twist on two beloved comfort foods. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or simply looking for a creative way to use up holiday leftovers, this dish is perfect for impressing guests without the stress.

Trust me when I say these mozzarella sticks will be the highlight of your holiday table. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Holiday Twist: The stuffing crust adds an irresistible seasonal flavor you won’t find in store-bought mozzarella sticks.
• Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this recipe comes together in no time.
• Perfect for Parties: These mozzarella sticks are a crowd-pleaser, ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
• Great Use for Leftovers: Transform leftover stuffing into something exciting and new.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer a classic herb stuffing or something with a little more spice, you can tweak the flavors to suit your taste.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love these cheesy bites!

What sets this recipe apart is the crust—it’s crunchy, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with the gooey mozzarella inside. It’s not just food; it’s a holiday experience packed into every bite. Plus, it’s super versatile—you can serve it as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a festive meal.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients, and you might already have most of them in your pantry.

• Mozzarella cheese sticks: These are the stars of the show! Use pre-packaged mozzarella sticks for convenience.
• Stuffing mix: Choose your favorite brand or use your own homemade stuffing. If using pre-made stuffing, make sure it’s crumbled and dry.
• Eggs: These act as the binding agent to hold the crust on the cheese sticks.
• All-purpose flour: Helps the egg stick to the cheese sticks and gives the stuffing something to adhere to.
• Seasonings: Optional but recommended—add garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of cayenne for extra flavor.
• Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for frying. If you prefer, you can bake or air-fry them instead.
• Dipping sauce: Marinara sauce or cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with these mozzarella sticks.

Feel free to customize the seasoning in the stuffing mix to suit your taste. For example, add a little sage for an extra holiday touch or some chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: For coating the mozzarella sticks in flour, egg, and stuffing.
• Whisk: To beat the eggs evenly.
• Frying pan or deep fryer: For perfectly crisp mozzarella sticks. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer for a healthier option.
• Baking sheet: If you choose to bake these instead of frying.
• Tongs: Useful for flipping the mozzarella sticks during frying or baking.
• Paper towels: To drain excess oil after frying.

If you don’t have a deep fryer, a heavy-bottomed skillet works just as well. And if you’re baking or air-frying, a wire rack can help keep the mozzarella sticks crispy.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the stuffing crust: If using pre-made stuffing, crumble it finely and spread it out on a plate. If it’s homemade, ensure it’s dry enough to stick to the cheese sticks. Add any extra seasonings, if desired.
2. Set up the dipping stations: Place the flour in one bowl, the beaten eggs in another, and the crumbled stuffing in a third bowl.
3. Coat the mozzarella sticks: Roll each stick in flour, dip it into the egg mixture, and then coat it generously with the stuffing crumbs. Press the crumbs onto the cheese stick to ensure they stick well.
4. Chill the coated sticks: Place the mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 30 minutes. This step helps keep the cheese from oozing out during cooking.
5. Heat the oil: In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Cook the mozzarella sticks: Fry the sticks in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. If baking, place them on a wire rack and bake for 10-12 minutes. For air-frying, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.
7. Drain and serve: Transfer the cooked mozzarella sticks to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

If you’re short on time, you can skip the chilling step, but be cautious as the cheese may melt faster during cooking. Also, keep an eye on the frying temperature to avoid burning the stuffing crust.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Keep it cold: Freezing the coated mozzarella sticks before cooking prevents the cheese from leaking out and helps the crust stick better.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry or bake the mozzarella sticks in batches for even cooking and crispiness.
• Season the stuffing: Enhance the flavor by adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of paprika to the stuffing mix.
• Use a thermometer: If frying, maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for the best results.
• Experiment with dipping sauces: Marinara, ranch, or even a zesty honey mustard can complement the mozzarella sticks beautifully.

Pro tip: If you’re making these for a party, prepare them ahead of time and freeze. Fry or bake them just before serving for maximum freshness and crunch.

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free stuffing and flour to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red chili flakes to the stuffing mix for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Twist: Use vegetarian stuffing and pair the sticks with a cranberry dipping sauce for a festive flavor.
• Air-Fried Option: Skip the oil and use an air fryer for a healthier alternative. You’ll still get the crispiness without the added fat.
• Cheese Variations: Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist or Colby jack for a milder flavor.

Last year, I swapped the mozzarella for smoked gouda, and it was a game-changer. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these stuffing-crusted mozzarella sticks hot, straight from the oven or fryer, for the best gooey texture. Pair them with marinara sauce for a classic combo or cranberry sauce for a holiday-inspired twist. For presentation, arrange them on a festive platter with sprigs of rosemary or parsley for a pop of color.

To store leftovers (if you have any!), place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until crispy and warm, or pop them into the air fryer for a quicker reheating option.

Pro tip: The flavors of the stuffing crust deepen over time, making these sticks even more irresistible the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

These stuffing-crusted mozzarella sticks are all about indulgence, but they can still be enjoyed in moderation. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g

Mozzarella provides a good source of calcium and protein, while the stuffing crust adds a dose of comforting carbs. If you’re watching your calorie intake, try baking or air-frying instead of deep-frying.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about these stuffing-crusted mozzarella sticks—they’re festive, flavorful, and always a hit. Whether you’re hosting for the holidays or simply indulging in some seasonal snacks, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. I love serving these at our holiday gatherings because they combine two comforting classics in such a creative way.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab those mozzarella sticks and leftover stuffing, and give this recipe a try. Don’t forget to share your creations in the comments below—I can’t wait to hear how you’ve made them your own!

Happy holidays and happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use homemade stuffing for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s dry and crumbled finely so it adheres to the mozzarella sticks properly.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.

What dipping sauces work best?

Marinara sauce is a classic option, but cranberry sauce adds a festive holiday touch.

Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, you can coat and freeze the mozzarella sticks ahead of time, then cook them just before serving.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Freezing the coated mozzarella sticks for at least 30 minutes before cooking helps keep the cheese intact.

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