Description
These Irresistible Cottage Cheese Sticks combine creamy cottage cheese and melted mozzarella in a crispy, golden breadcrumb coating. Baked to perfection, these cheese sticks are a healthier alternative to traditional fried versions, offering a delicious appetizer or snack that’s simple to prepare and delightfully satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Coating
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray or olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Cheese Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated into a consistent mixture.
- Beat the Eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. This egg wash will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the cheese sticks.
- Form and Coat Cheese Sticks: Take small portions of the cheese mixture and shape them into sticks. Dip each stick into the beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage, then roll it thoroughly in the breadcrumbs to create a crispy outer layer.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated cheese sticks on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them apart to allow for even baking and crispiness.
- Add Oil for Crispiness: Lightly spray the cheese sticks with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to enhance browning and crisp texture during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese sticks turn golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cheese sticks from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly, ensuring they hold their shape and are safe to eat.
Notes
- Using whole wheat breadcrumbs adds a nutty flavor and boosts fiber content.
- For extra crispiness, consider double coating the sticks by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
- You can use cooking spray or brush olive oil evenly to reduce added fat while maintaining crispness.
- Make sure the cheese mixture is not too wet; if needed, drain excess moisture from the cottage cheese before mixing.
