Keto Mozzarella Sticks

Introduction

Indulging in crispy, golden mozzarella sticks doesn’t have to derail your keto diet. With this simple, low-carb recipe, you can enjoy a guilt-free, cheesy treat that satisfies your cravings without compromising your lifestyle. These keto mozzarella sticks boast an irresistible gooey center wrapped in a crunchy coating, and they’re incredibly easy to prepare with just a few staple ingredients. No parmesan cheese, coconut flour, or homemade breadcrumbs required!

Why You Prefer This Recipe

• Ultra-Low Carb: Each stick contains only 0.2 grams of net carbs.
• Quick to Make: Ready in just 12 minutes (excluding freezing time).
• Kid-Approved: A wholesome, homemade snack that the whole family will love.
• Customizable Coatings: Options for almond flour, pork panko, and more.

What Sets This Recipe Different

No Overpowering Ingredients

Many mozzarella stick recipes call for parmesan cheese, coconut flour, or homemade breadcrumbs, which can alter the flavor profile. Here, we let the mild and creamy taste of mozzarella shine through by skipping these additions.

Perfect Crunch with Pork Panko

Ground pork rinds, also known as pork panko, provide a superior crispy exterior while keeping carbs to a minimum. Paired with almond flour as the binding agent, this combination creates the ultimate low-carb coating.

Freezing for Success

Freezing the coated cheese sticks before cooking ensures that the cheese melts perfectly without breaking through the crust. This step is crucial for achieving restaurant-quality results.

Ingredients You will Need

• 8 Mozzarella Cheese Sticks: Also called string cheese, these are the stars of the show.
• 1/4 Cup Almond Flour: A light and keto-friendly base for the coating.
• 2 Eggs: Beaten to create an adhesive layer.
• 1 1/2 Cups Pork Panko: Ground pork rinds that deliver a satisfyingly crunchy texture.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese

Cut each string cheese stick in half to create bite-sized portions. This step makes them easier to coat and fry.

2. Set Up Your Coating Stations

Use three shallow bowls for the coating process:

1. Add almond flour to the first bowl.
2. Beat the eggs in the second bowl.
3. Place pork panko in the third bowl.

3. Coat the Cheese Sticks

• Roll each halved cheese stick in almond flour to create a dry base layer.
• Dip it into the beaten egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
• Dredge the stick in pork panko, pressing gently to adhere. For extra crunch, repeat the egg wash and pork panko steps.

4. Freeze the Sticks

Arrange the coated sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least 2 hours or until completely solid. This step prevents the cheese from melting too quickly during cooking.

5. Cooking Options

• Frying: Heat avocado oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Fry the sticks for 30-45 seconds, or until golden brown. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
• Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the frozen sticks for about 6 minutes or until golden and slightly melted.
• Air Frying: Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Cook for 3-4 minutes.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Alternative Coatings: Swap almond flour with coconut flour, lupin flour, protein powder, or oat fiber for different textures and flavors.
• Storage: Freeze uncooked sticks in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen when needed.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping.

Common Questions About Keto Mozzarella Sticks

Are These Sticks Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! The almond flour and pork panko make this recipe 100% gluten-free.

Is Mozzarella Keto-Friendly?

Yes, string cheese has only 1 gram of carbs per stick, making it an ideal keto snack.

How Many Carbs Are in Traditional Mozzarella Sticks?

Restaurant or store-bought mozzarella sticks typically contain around 8 grams of net carbs per stick. This recipe slashes that to just 0.2 grams per stick!

Simple Keto Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
• 1/4 cup almond flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups pork panko

Directions:

1. Prepare Cheese: Cut each string cheese stick in half.
2. Set Up Coatings: In separate bowls, place almond flour, beaten eggs, and pork panko.
3. Coat Sticks: Roll cheese in almond flour, dip in egg, and coat with pork panko. Repeat for extra crispiness.
4. Freeze: Arrange on a tray and freeze for 2 hours.
5. Cook:
   • Fry: Heat avocado oil in a skillet and fry for 30-45 seconds.
   • Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F and bake for 6 minutes.
   • Air Fry: Air fry at 390°F for 3-4 minutes.

Nutrition (Per 2 Sticks):

• Calories: 138
• Fat: 10.3g
• Protein: 11.3g
• Net Carbs: 0.4g