Mozzarella lasagna sticks combine the classic flavors of lasagna with the fun of finger food. This delightful dish takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a crispy, cheesy snack that’s perfect for gatherings or a casual night in. You’ll love preparing these sticks as they provide a playful twist on traditional lasagna, allowing you to enjoy all the comforting flavors and textures in a convenient form.
Why We Love This Mozzarella Lasagna Sticks Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with mozzarella lasagna sticks. First, they are incredibly versatile, making them a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you are serving guests at a party or just wanting to treat yourself, these sticks fit the bill. They’re loaded with gooey mozzarella and flavored pimento cheese, all wrapped up in crispy panko. Plus, the combination of textures—from soft noodles to crunchy crumbs—will please any palate. Not to mention, they’re easy to make and even easier to eat!
Ingredients about Mozzarella Lasagna Sticks
List of ingredients with measurements
- 6 Lasagna Sheets
- Cooking spray
- 8 ounces Pimento cheese
- 6 Mozzarella sticks, halved
- 4 Eggs, beaten
- 2 cups Panko crumbs
- Frying oil
How to Make Mozzarella Lasagna Sticks Directions
To begin your culinary journey with mozzarella lasagna sticks, you’ll need to prepare the lasagna sheets first. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, adding the lasagna sheets one by one. Cook them until they are al dente and then remove them from the heat. Drain the sheets and lay them out on a clean work surface. A light spray of cooking spray will keep them from sticking together.
Next, take your pimento cheese and spread a thin layer over each lasagna sheet. This cheesy goodness will provide flavor and moisture to your sticks. After spreading, slice each noodle lengthwise into two pieces. This step not only allows for easier rolling but also helps create the perfect portion size for your sticks.
Now comes the exciting part! Place one half of a mozzarella stick at one end of each lasagna strip. Carefully roll up the noodle around the cheese, creating a delightful cheesy center. Make sure to roll it tightly, ensuring none of that gooey goodness escapes during frying. Repeat this process for the remaining noodles and mozzarella sticks.
Once your rolls are formed, lay them flat on a baking sheet and pop them into the freezer. Let them firm up for about an hour. This freezing step is essential as it will help to hold the sticks together during frying. While you wait, beat your eggs in a shallow bowl, preparing for the next step.
After the sticks have firmed up, set up your frying station. You will need one bowl for the beaten eggs and another for the panko crumbs. Take each stick, first dipping it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, roll the stick in the panko crumbs, pressing gently to ensure a solid coating. This extra layer will yield a crispy exterior that complements the savory filling perfectly.
Now it’s time to fry! Heat oil in a deep skillet until it reaches 350°F (180°C). Carefully place your prepared sticks in the hot oil, frying them until they become golden brown. This process usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes, so watch them closely. Once they’re crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
How to Serve Mozzarella Lasagna Sticks
Serving mozzarella lasagna sticks is as much about the presentation as it is about the flavor. Start by arranging the sticks on a beautiful platter. For a pop of color, consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil. These bright green accents elevate the visual appeal.
These sticks are best enjoyed warm, so once they are ready, serve them immediately. Pair them with marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the Italian flavors. You could explore serving them with a variety of sauces too, such as ranch or garlic aioli, for an interesting twist. Whether enjoyed as appetizers at a gathering or as a delicious snack at home, every bite promises to be mouthwatering!
Expert Tips: Mozzarella Lasagna Sticks
Creating the perfect mozzarella lasagna sticks comes down to a few expert tips that ensure your dish is a hit. First, make sure not to overcook your lasagna sheets. Aim for a slight firmness in the noodles since they will continue to soften once you fry them. This helps maintain the right texture.
Second, when rolling the noodles, be gentle. You want to keep the filling intact while rolling tightly. If you find it difficult to roll, consider using a slightly wider noodle or spreading the filling a bit more.
Also, do not skip the freezing step! This crucial moment allows the sticks to maintain their shape during frying. Lastly, be patient with frying—do not overcrowd the skillet. Frying in small batches ensures even cooking and crispiness for each stick.
How to Store Mozzarella Lasagna Sticks
If you happen to have leftover mozzarella lasagna sticks, you’ll want to make sure they are stored properly to maintain their deliciousness. Allow the cooked sticks to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them before frying. Simply place the un-fried, rolled sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet until they freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can fry them straight from the freezer—just allow a few extra minutes in the oil.
Variation of Mozzarella Lasagna Sticks
While the classic mozzarella lasagna sticks are delicious in their own right, there are plenty of ways to mix things up. You might consider adding layers of spinach or roasted peppers for an extra nutritional boost and added flavor. A bit of crumbled Italian sausage or ground beef can easily be added to your pimento cheese for protein-packed indulgence.
Alternatively, if you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different types of cheese! Incorporating a mix of cheddar or provolone with your mozzarella can create a delightful blend of flavors. You can even craft spicy mozzarella sticks using pepper jack cheese for an exciting kick.
Another fun variation is crafting a sweet version using lasagna noodles, chocolate, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for dessert. These creative tweaks open a world of possibilities, and you are sure to discover a new favorite rendition of this classic dish.
FAQ
What are mozzarella lasagna sticks?
Mozzarella lasagna sticks are a unique dish that combines lasagna sheets and mozzarella sticks, rolled together, then coated in panko and fried to a crispy finish.
How should I serve mozzarella lasagna sticks?
They are best served warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce, along with a sprinkle of chopped herbs for garnish.
Can I prepare mozzarella lasagna sticks ahead of time?
Yes, you can freeze the un-fried sticks for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, fry them straight from the freezer.
What can I substitute for pimento cheese in this recipe?
If you don’t have pimento cheese, a blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and some spices can be a great substitute.
How do I store leftover mozzarella lasagna sticks?
Leftover cooked sticks can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen before frying for longer storage.
Mozzarella Lasagna Sticks
Ingredients
Pasta and Filling
- 6 sheets Lasagna Sheets
- 8 ounces Pimento cheese
- 6 pieces Mozzarella sticks, halved
- 4 large Eggs, beaten
Coating
- 2 cups Panko crumbs
Cooking Essentials
- Cooking spray To prevent lasagna sheets from sticking
- Frying oil For frying
Instructions
Preparation of Lasagna Sheets
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, adding the lasagna sheets one by one.
- Cook the sheets until al dente, then remove from heat and drain them.
- Lay the sheets on a clean work surface, spraying lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Assembling the Sticks
- Spread a thin layer of pimento cheese over each lasagna sheet.
- Slice each noodle lengthwise into two pieces for easier rolling.
- Place half a mozzarella stick at one end of each lasagna strip and roll it tightly.
- Repeat this process for the remaining noodles and mozzarella sticks.
Freezing
- Lay the rolled sticks flat on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour.
Frying
- Set up a frying station with beaten eggs in one bowl and panko crumbs in another.
- Dip each stick in the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Roll the stick in panko crumbs, pressing gently for a solid coating.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (180°C) and fry the sticks until golden brown, about 5 to 6 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the sticks and drain on paper towels.
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