Vegetarian: Appetizers and Snacks: Baked Mozzarella Sticks

Cheesy nibbles loaded with calcium.

Author: National Dairy Council - www.nationaldairycouncil.org
Date: April 03, 2013

Serves: 12 person(s)
Yield: 12 x sticks

Preparation Time: 20 mins
Cooking Time: 6 mins

Ingredients:

1 (12 oz) package 2% reduced-fat Mozzarella string cheese
1 egg
1 tsp Italian seasoning
8 Tbsp panko (Japanese) bread crumbs
1/2 cup low-sodium prepared marinara sauce, warmed (optional)
1 cooking spray

Directions:

Position rack in upper third of oven and preheat oven to 350ºF. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray lightly with cooking spray.

Remove cheese from packaging and set aside. In a small bowl, whisk egg until foamy. In small non-stick skillet, mix Italian seasoning with bread crumbs and place over medium heat. Cook and stir bread crumbs until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.

Dip one piece of string cheese in egg until coated and then into toasted bread crumbs, coating completely. Place on baking sheet. Repeat with remaining string cheese and place on baking sheet 1-1/2 inches apart. Spray string cheese lightly with cooking spray.

Bake 5 to 6 minutes or until heated through. (Cheese may melt slightly and lose shape. Simply press it back into place.)

Pair with warmed marinara sauce for dipping (optional).

Variations:

If using part-skim or regular mozzarella, adjust the nutrition for additional calories and fat.