Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the thawed and drained spinach, parmesan cheese, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
Shape the Mozzarella Sticks:
Take a small portion of the spinach and cheese mixture and shape it into a stick or log. Place these on a tray lined with parchment paper. Once all are shaped, freeze them for about 1 hour, or until firm.
Prepare the Dredging Station:
Set up three shallow dishes for the breading process: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with milk, and one with breadcrumbs.
Coat the Sticks:
Once the cheese sticks are firm, dip each one first into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, you can double dip into the egg and breadcrumbs again.
Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
Heat the canola oil in a deep fryer or a large pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain a consistent oil temperature.
Drain and Serve:
Remove the fried mozzarella sticks from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate. This helps to remove any excess oil.
Garnish and Serve:
Arrange the mozzarella sticks on a serving platter. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch. Serve hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips:
Freezing is Key: Freezing the mozzarella sticks before frying is crucial as it helps them hold their shape and ensures that the cheese doesn’t ooze out during frying.
Oil Temperature: Make sure to keep the oil at the right temperature; if the oil is too hot, the breadcrumbs will burn before the cheese melts. If it’s too cold, the mozzarella sticks will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Serving Suggestion: These are best served immediately after frying while they are still warm and the cheese is gooey.
Conclusion:
Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks offer a fabulous twist on a classic appetizer, combining the comforting flavors of spinach and cheeses in a crispy breadcrumb coating. They are perfect for parties, game day snacks, or any time you crave something deliciously cheesy. Enjoy these indulgent treats with a side of marinara sauce for the ultimate dipping experience!
