Olive Garden Fried Mozzarella

Everyone loves fried mozzarella sticks, and you can easily match the restaurant taste with this inexpensive recipe. Serve these with your favorite warm marinara sauce.

Olive Garden’s Fried Mozzarella is a popular appetizer known for its crispy exterior and gooey, melted cheese filling. This indulgent dish combines the richness of mozzarella cheese with a flavorful breadcrumb coating, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

The mozzarella is sliced into sections, coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs and seasonings, and then deep-fried to perfection. The result is a golden-brown crust that gives way to a warm and creamy center of melted cheese. Each bite offers a satisfying combination of crunch and cheesiness, making it a favorite among cheese lovers.

The simplicity of the ingredients allows the mozzarella to take center stage, showcasing its mild and creamy taste. The breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch and provide a seasoned coating that enhances the overall flavor profile. Served hot and fresh, the fried mozzarella is often accompanied by a tangy marinara sauce for dipping, adding a burst of acidity and complementing the richness of the cheese.

Olive Garden’s Fried Mozzarella is a versatile appetizer that can be enjoyed on its own, shared with friends and family, or even incorporated into a larger meal. It makes for a delicious addition to any Italian-inspired menu or as an indulgent snack during social gatherings. Whether served as an appetizer at a restaurant or prepared at home, this classic dish is sure to satisfy cravings for cheesy, crispy goodness.

SERVES: 2–4

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound block mozzarella cheese
• 2 eggs
• ¼ cup water
• 1½ cups Italian bread crumbs
• ½ teaspoon granulated garlic
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 2/3 cup flour
• 1/3 cup cornstarch

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat oil in a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. Slice the block of cheese lengthwise, into about ½″ sections.
3. Cut each section in half.
4. In a small bowl, beat the eggs with water and set aside.
5. In another small bowl, mix the bread crumbs, garlic, oregano, and basil and set aside.
6. In another small bowl, blend the flour with the cornstarch and set aside.
7. Dip the cheese in flour, then in egg wash, then coat with bread crumbs.
8. Place carefully in hot oil and fry until golden brown. This should only take a matter of seconds, so you need to watch them closely.
9. Drain on paper towels.

VARIATIONS:

• Herb-Crusted Fried Mozzarella: Add a variety of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley to the breadcrumb mixture to give the fried mozzarella a more aromatic and herbaceous flavor.
• Spicy Fried Mozzarella: Incorporate spices like cayenne pepper, paprika, or crushed red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture for a kick of heat. This variation adds a spicy twist to the classic fried mozzarella.
• Panko-Crusted Fried Mozzarella: Replace the Italian breadcrumbs with panko breadcrumbs for a lighter and extra crispy coating. Panko breadcrumbs create a delicate and crunchy texture that pairs well with the gooey cheese inside.
• Parmesan-Crusted Fried Mozzarella: Mix grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs to add a rich and nutty flavor to the fried mozzarella. The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella creates a delicious blend of cheeses.
• Stuffed Fried Mozzarella: Take the fried mozzarella to the next level by stuffing the cheese with ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, chopped spinach, or cooked bacon before breading and frying. This variation adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dish.
• Mozzarella Bites: Instead of slicing the mozzarella into sections, cut it into bite-sized cubes or sticks. This variation is perfect for easy snacking or serving as a party appetizer.
• Baked Mozzarella Sticks: For a healthier alternative, skip the deep frying and bake the breaded mozzarella sticks in the oven until golden brown. This method reduces the amount of oil used while still achieving a crispy exterior.
• Dipping Sauces: Experiment with different dipping sauces to accompany the fried mozzarella. Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also try ranch dressing, pesto sauce, or a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a unique flavor experience.