High-Protein Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

🧀 High-Protein Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

Golden, crunchy, and packed with protein — your favorite snack made fit-friendly!

Servings: 12 sticks | Prep Time: 15 mins | Chill Time: 30 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 55 mins

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⚡ Ingredients

For the Cheese Sticks:

• 6 sticks light or part-skim mozzarella string cheese, cut in half
• 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt (for protein-rich coating binder)
• ½ scoop unflavored or savory protein powder (optional but boosts macros)

For the Coating:

• ½ cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs (or panko for crispiness)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp paprika
• Pinch of salt and pepper

For Cooking:

• Olive oil spray (for baking or air-frying)

Optional Dip:

• Greek yogurt marinara (1 cup marinara sauce + ¼ cup Greek yogurt blended smooth)

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🧑‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep the Cheese:
   Cut string cheese sticks in half. Freeze for at least 30 minutes (this keeps them from melting too fast when cooking).
2. Set Up Dipping Stations:
   • Bowl 1: Greek yogurt + protein powder (mix well).
   • Bowl 2: Breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and seasonings.
3. Coat the Cheese:
   • Dip each cheese stick into the yogurt mixture.
   • Roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
   • For extra crunch: repeat for a double coat (dip again and re-roll).
4. Cook (3 Options):
   • Air Fryer: 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes, turning halfway through.
   • Oven: 425°F (220°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
   • Skillet (light fry): Heat 1–2 tbsp olive oil, cook 1–2 minutes per side until golden.
5. Serve Hot:
   Dip in Greek yogurt marinara or spicy tomato sauce and enjoy the gooey, cheesy perfection!

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💪 High-Protein Swaps

• Greek yogurt replaces eggs — adds protein + cuts fat
• Protein powder makes the coating crispier and boosts macros
• Light string cheese = ~7g protein each
• Use air fryer for max crunch with minimal oil

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⚙️ Macros (Approx. per 2 sticks)

• Calories: ~150
• Protein: 17g
• Carbs: 8g
• Fat: 5g

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🧄 Pro Tip

Freeze leftovers — they reheat perfectly in an air fryer or oven for a quick high-protein snack!