Mozzarella sticks are a popular appetizer or snack made of mozzarella cheese coated in breadcrumbs and fried until crispy on the outside and melted and gooey on the inside. While they are traditionally fried, many people wonder if you can prepare frozen mozzarella sticks in the microwave for a quick and easy snack. The short answer is yes, you can make frozen mozzarella sticks in the microwave! However, there are some tips and tricks to getting the best results when microwave cooking frozen mozzarella sticks.
Can You Cook Frozen Mozzarella Sticks in the Microwave?
Cooking frozen mozzarella sticks in the microwave is definitely possible. The microwave provides a convenient, fast cooking method that can melt and heat the mozzarella inside the breaded exterior. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when microwaving frozen cheese sticks:
– Cook time – Frozen mozzarella sticks will take longer to cook through in the microwave compared to deep frying. You will need to microwave them for several minutes, based on the package instructions, to ensure the cheese melts and the interior cooks through.
– Soggy breading – Microwaves can make the exterior breading on cheese sticks soggy due to the way they heat food. You’ll want to use lower power and cook them just until the cheese melts to help maintain a crisper outside.
– Uneven cooking – Rotating the mozzarella sticks midway through microwaving can help prevent cold spots and cook them more evenly throughout. The edges may cook faster than the middle.
– Drying out – Cook frozen cheese sticks just until the cheese melts to prevent drying out the mozzarella. Overcooking can make it rubbery and tough.
Tips for Microwaving Frozen Mozzarella Sticks
Follow these tips for the best results when making frozen mozzarella sticks in the microwave:
– Arrange in a single layer – Spread the frozen mozzarella sticks out in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate to allow for even cooking. This prevents overcrowding.
– Use lower power – Cook at a lower power level like 50% to prevent overcooking the exterior before the middle thaws and cooks through. This helps maintain a crispier crust.
– Cook in 30-second intervals – Microwave in 30-second intervals, checking and turning the mozzarella sticks in between. This allows you to better control the cooking process.
– Let stand – After microwaving, let the hot mozzarella sticks stand for 1-2 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to fully melt and finish cooking.
– Rotate midway – Turn the mozzarella sticks over about halfway through microwaving for even cooking on all sides. The edges tend to cook faster.
– Use a microwave cover – Cooking with a vented cover or paper towel can trap steam and help cook the mozzarella sticks without drying them out.
– Brush with oil – Lightly brushing the frozen mozzarella sticks with oil before microwaving can help crisp the breading.
Microwave Cooking Times for Frozen Mozzarella Sticks
Microwaving times will vary based on the microwave wattage, number of mozzarella sticks, and whether they are thawed or frozen. Here are some general guidelines:
For Frozen Mozzarella Sticks:
– 1000 watt microwave – Cook for 3-5 minutes total
– 750 watt microwave – Cook for 4-6 minutes total
– 600 watt microwave – Cook for 5-7 minutes total
Cook in 30-second intervals, flipping halfway for even cooking. Add more time if needed.
For Thawed Mozzarella Sticks:
– 1000 watt microwave – Cook for 1-2 minutes total
– 750 watt microwave – Cook for 1.5-3 minutes total
– 600 watt microwave – Cook for 2-4 minutes total
Cook for less time, in 30-second intervals, just until hot and melted.
Choosing the Best Frozen Mozzarella Sticks for Microwaving
Not all frozen mozzarella sticks are created equal when it comes to microwaving. Here is what to look for to select the best cheese sticks for microwave cooking:
– Thick breading – A thicker breadcrumb coating will retain its crunch better than a thin one.
– Whole milk mozzarella – For nicely melted, gooey cheese. Low moisture part skim mozzarella sticks can turn rubbery.
– Sturdy sticks – Cheese sticks made with a firmer mozzarella block hold their shape better when microwaved.
– Natural breading ingredients – Avoid mozzarella sticks with crisp coatings full of artificial additives. Simple breadcrumbs work best.
– Restaurant-style – Opt for restaurant-style rather than thin budget mozzarella sticks.
– Good brand reputation – Choose a trusted brand known for decent quality. Read reviews to check.
Pre-Microwave Prep for Best Results
You can help microwave frozen mozzarella sticks turn out crisp and melty by taking a couple steps before placing them in the microwave:
– Let thaw 5 minutes – Letting frozen mozzarella sticks sit at room temp for 5 minutes before microwaving helps prevent a soggy exterior.
– Lightly oil – Brush thawed cheese sticks with a little oil to help the breading crisp up in the microwave.
– Wrap in paper towel – Microwaving on a paper towel wicks away excess moisture for a crisper crust.
– Vent the covering – Use wax paper or paper towel instead of plastic wrap for a cover to allow steam to escape.
– Re-crisp under broiler – To re-crisp mozzarella sticks after microwaving, broil for 1-2 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.
Microwave Hacks for the Best Cheese Sticks
These handy hacks can help you get restaurant-quality results when microwaving frozen mozzarella sticks:
Crisp Coating Hack:
– Dip cheese sticks in egg then breadcrumbs before microwaving for extra crispy breading. The egg coating helps the breading adhere better.
Melty Cheese Hack:
– Microwave cheese sticks on a wire rack over a plate. This allows air circulation under them as they cook to prevent sogginess.
Even Cooking Hack:
– Arrange in a ring around the outer edge of the rotating microwave turntable for optimal heat circulation.
Quick Clean-Up Hack:
– Place cheese sticks on a microwave bacon cooking rack to elevate them. This contains messes from the melting cheese.
Flavor Boost Hack:
– Toss cooked mozzarella sticks while hot in a mixture of parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, and garlic powder.
Best Dipping Sauces for Microwaved Mozzarella Sticks
Warm, melty mozzarella sticks fresh from the microwave taste fantastic when paired with a flavorful dipping sauce. Here are some delicious options:
Classic Marinara Sauce – The traditional pairing, tangy tomato marinara is always a crowd-pleaser.
Zesty Ranch – Cool and creamy ranch makes the ideal dip for hot cheese sticks.
Chipotle Mayo – Spicy chipotle peppers lend a smoky kick to creamy mayonnaise.
Buffalo Sauce – For fans of spicy buffalo wings, buffalo sauce delivers that signature butter and hot sauce flavor.
Honey Mustard – The sweet and tangy combination of honey and mustard is a crave-worthy dip.
BBQ Sauce – Sweet, smoky and slightly spicy barbecue sauce complements the mozzarella sticks.
Cheese Fondue – For an over-the-top cheesy experience, try mozzarella sticks with gooey cheese fondue.
Storing Leftover Microwaved Mozzarella Sticks
Microwaved frozen mozzarella sticks taste best right after cooking. But here are some storage tips for leftovers:
– Let cool completely before storing to avoid condensation issues.
– Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3-4 days.
– Microwave leftovers on half power for the best texture, just until heated through.
– The cheese may separate a bit upon reheating. That’s normal for reheated mozzarella.
– Don’t freeze reheated mozzarella sticks. The already melted cheese texture will deteriorate.
– For crisper reheated sticks, brush with oil and reheat on a sheet pan under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
Common Problems and Easy Fixes
Microwaving frozen cheese sticks takes some trial and error. Refer to these troubleshooting tips as needed:
Soggy Breading –
– Use lower microwave power and cook just until cheese melts.
– Brush thawed sticks with oil before cooking.
– Broil briefly after microwaving to re-crisp.
Rubbery Cheese –
– Don’t overcook. Microwave just until cheese melts.
– Use whole milk mozzarella sticks, not part skim.
Uneven Cooking –
– Arrange in a single layer, not overlapping.
– Rotate sticks midway through microwaving.
– Cook in 30-second intervals for better control.
Cold Spots –
– Let cheese sticks fully thaw before microwaving.
– Cook frozen sticks longer, in intervals, until hot throughout.
Microwaved Mozzarella Sticks Safety Tips
When preparing any frozen foods in the microwave, follow these safety recommendations:
– Use microwave-safe cookware. Never microwave mozzarella sticks in plastic wrap or foam containers.
– Allow the recommended standing time. This finishes the cooking process.
– Check that cheese sticks are cooked through in the center. They should reach 165°F internally.
– Take care when removing from the microwave, as filling will be extremely hot.
– Discard any sticks that look or smell bad. Don’t risk eating spoiled food.
– Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and reheat thoroughly before serving again.
– Keep cooked mozzarella sticks away from raw foods to avoid cross contamination.
Conclusion
While not exactly the same as deep-fried, microwaving frozen mozzarella sticks is a convenient way to enjoy this hot, melty snack at home. With some microwave tips and tricks to prevent soggy breading and rubbery cheese, you can whip up crispy, gooey cheese sticks from the freezer in minutes. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for appetizer perfection! Just be sure to follow safety guidelines when reheating frozen foods. Now go enjoy those easy, melty mozzarella sticks straight from your microwave.