Costco mozzarella cheese sticks are a hit at parties and for snack lovers. They have a crunchy outside and a soft, melted cheese inside. They’re great for any event or when you just want a tasty snack.
These sticks are made with low-moisture mozzarella cheese and a seasoned breadcrumb coating. They taste great and feel good in your mouth. You can cook them in different ways like air frying, oven baking, or deep frying. This lets you get them just right, whether you like them extra crispy or not.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Costco Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
Costco’s mozzarella cheese sticks are a favorite at parties. They are tasty and easy to serve, making them perfect for any event. People love them because they are high quality.
What Makes Them Special
Costco’s cheese sticks are made with the best ingredients. They have a crunchy outside and a soft, stretchy inside. This makes every bite a joy.
Quality and Value Proposition
These cheese sticks are a great deal for parties. Costco sells a 28-count box of Foster Farms Corn Dogs for a good price. They can be cooked in many ways, like air frying or baking, for the best taste.
Party Food Excellence
Costco’s mozzarella cheese sticks are ideal for parties. They’re quick to make, so hosts can enjoy the event more. They impress everyone with their taste and texture. Plus, they fit well with many party themes.
The Art of Selecting Quality Cheese Sticks
Choosing the right mozzarella string cheese or frozen cheese sticks is crucial. Costco’s mozzarella is low-moisture, which helps it stay in shape when cooked. But, the breading and spices are also key to the taste.
For the best mozzarella string cheese or frozen cheese sticks, find a mix that’s just right. The breading should add a nice texture without hiding the cheese’s taste.
| Brand | Price (per 8 oz) | Slices | Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trader Joe’s Organic American Singles | $4 | 12 | High |
| Kraft Deli Deluxe American Cheese Slices | Affordable | Varies | Good |
| Organic Valley American Cheese Slices Yellow | Higher | 6 | Excellent |
| Applegate Organics American Cheese | Most Expensive | 7 | Premium |
By picking mozzarella string cheese or frozen cheese sticks with the perfect balance, you’ll enjoy a great snack.
🧀 Costco Mozzarella Cheese Sticks 🧀
Ingredients:
- 1 pack Costco Mozzarella Cheese Sticks (about 12-15 sticks)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray (or vegetable oil for frying)
- Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the breading station:
In three separate bowls, set up your breading station.- In the first bowl, place the flour and season it with salt and pepper.
- In the second bowl, beat the eggs.
- Mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder and Italian seasoning in the third bowl.
- Coat the cheese sticks:
Coat each mozzarella stick and coat it in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and then coat it thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs. You can repeat the process (double dip!) for an extra crispy coating to get a thicker breading. - Chill the cheese sticks:
Lay the coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This step is key to preventing the cheese from melting too quickly while cooking and helps to keep that cheesy center intact! - Bake or fry:
- For baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the cheese sticks with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet. Bake for 6-8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the coating is golden and crispy.
- For frying: Heat a few inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry the cheese sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot!
- Serve and enjoy:
Once your mozzarella sticks are perfectly golden and crispy, serve them hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. They make an irresistible snack for any occasion!
These Costco-inspired Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are crispy on the outside and ooey-gooey on the inside—just like the ones you love, but made right at home. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or when you just want something cheesy to snack on!uests.
How to Cook Costco Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
Costco’s mozzarella cheese sticks are a hit at parties. You can cook them in an air fryer, oven, or deep fryer. Each method gives a different taste and texture.
Air Fryer Method
Start by preheating the air fryer to 360°F. Put the frozen cheese sticks in a single layer in the basket. Make sure they don’t touch each other. Fry for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway, until they’re golden and crispy.
Oven Baking
Preheat your oven to 475°F for baking. Place the frozen cheese sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 7 to 8 minutes. They should be lightly golden and melted inside.
Deep Frying
For a deep-fried taste, heat oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or pot. Fry the cheese sticks for 2 to 2.5 minutes, until golden. Drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
It’s key to let the cheese sticks stand for 2 minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set and keeps the outside crispy.
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Air Fryer | 360°F | 5 minutes |
| Oven Baking | 475°F | 7-8 minutes |
| Deep Frying | 350°F | 2-2.5 minutes |
By following these steps, you can make delicious mozzarella cheese sticks from Costco. They’re perfect for parties or just a tasty snack. Always be careful when handling hot oil and surfaces.
Air Fryer Cooking Method
The air fryer is great for making Costco mozzarella cheese sticks crispy on the outside and gooey inside. First, preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the frozen cheese sticks in a single layer in the basket, without crowding them.
Lightly spray the cheese sticks with cooking oil. This helps them get that nice crunch.
Temperature Settings
The best temperature for air frying mozzarella cheese sticks is 375°F. This temperature makes the outside crispy and the inside warm and melty.
Timing and Techniques
- Cook the cheese sticks for about 6 minutes, flipping them halfway for even browning.
- Watch them closely, as the air fryer cooks them fast. Check after 3-4 minutes to avoid cheese explosions.
- Using frozen mozzarella sticks keeps the breading crisp.
Best Practices
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
- Don’t overcook, as mozzarella can get rubbery from too much heat.
- This recipe makes about 6 servings, with 3 pieces per serving. Each serving has around 260 calories.
By using these air fryer tips, you can make your cheese snacks even better. Enjoy perfectly cooked mozzarella cheese sticks every time.
Oven-Baked Perfection
Indulging in delectable cheese appetizers is easy with the oven-baked method. It’s a simple way to cook Costco’s frozen cheese sticks. This method makes cheese appetizers crispy and evenly cooked, impressing your guests.
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F. Place the frozen cheese sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they don’t touch each other for even cooking and to prevent sticking.
- Bake the frozen cheese sticks for 7-8 minutes, watching closely to avoid overcooking.
- After the timer goes off, let the cheese appetizers stand for 2 minutes before serving.
- This method results in crispy outside and gooey inside cheese sticks, delighting your taste buds.
Whether it’s a party or a snack craving, oven-baked frozen cheese sticks are a foolproof choice. Enjoy the melty, golden-brown cheese appetizers and impress your guests with your cooking skills.
Deep Frying Tips and Techniques
To make your Costco cheese snacks even better, learn how to deep fry them. Deep frying gives Costco’s mozzarella cheese sticks a unique taste and texture.
Oil Selection
Choosing the right oil is key for deep frying. Use oils like vegetable or canola oil. They can handle high temperatures without burning or adding bad flavors.
Safety Measures
Deep frying needs extra care. Always have a fire extinguisher ready. Never use water on an oil fire, as it can spread fast. Stay alert while frying.
Perfect Timing Guide
To fry Costco cheese sticks perfectly, heat your oil to 350°F. Add the frozen sticks and fry for 2 to 2.5 minutes. They should be golden and crispy. Drain them on paper towels to keep them crunchy.
| Cooking Method | Recommended Time |
|---|---|
| Air Fryer | 5 minutes |
| Conventional Oven | 7-8 minutes |
| Deep Frying | 2-2.5 minutes |
By using these deep-frying tips, you can make your costco cheese snacks even tastier. Your guests will love the cheese snacks experience.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Make your party special by serving Costco’s mozzarella cheese sticks in a fancy way. These tasty bites are great with different dipping sauces. Try them with marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for a burst of flavor.
For a great appetizer mix, Costco mozzarella cheese sticks go well with other appetizers. Add them to a mix of small dishes like samosas, jalapeños, or a fruit and cheese platter. This variety will keep your guests excited all night.
On charcuterie boards, mozzarella cheese sticks really stand out. Pair them with soft cheeses like brie and goat cheese, and some aged ones like cheddar. Don’t forget bold cheeses like Gorgonzola. Add cured meats, nuts, fruits, and spreads for a complete board.
Adding Costco’s mozzarella cheese sticks to your menu will please your guests and make your party look great. Try different combinations to create a memorable spread that highlights these tasty appetizers.
Storage and Reheating Methods
Enjoying Costco’s cheese sticks doesn’t have to stop after the first time. You can enjoy their crispy and melty goodness again and again. Here’s how to store and reheat your mozzarella cheese sticks recipe perfectly.
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your Costco mozzarella cheese sticks fresh, follow these tips:
- Put leftover cooked cheese sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze cooked cheese sticks for longer storage, up to 3-6 months.
- Don’t freeze fresh mozzarella cheese sticks. They can get grainy when thawed. Use pre-cooked, frozen ones instead.
Best Reheating Practices
Ready to enjoy your leftover frozen cheese sticks? Use methods that keep them crispy. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy. Try these better ways to reheat:
- Oven or Air Fryer: Heat to 375°F and bake for 6-8 minutes, until crispy and hot.
- Stovetop: Fry in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
Quality Maintenance Tips
To keep your leftover mozzarella cheese sticks tasting great, follow these tips:
- Thaw frozen cheese sticks in the fridge overnight to avoid texture changes.
- Reheat them quickly at high heat to get their crispy exterior back.
- Don’t overcrowd the cooking surface, whether in the oven, air fryer, or skillet, for even heating.
Mastering storage and reheating lets you enjoy Costco’s mozzarella cheese sticks again and again. Enjoy every bite, even with leftovers!
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
When making Costco mozzarella cheese sticks, it’s key to avoid common mistakes. Overcooking or burning can make the sticks tough and gooey inside. Undercooking can leave them cold and unsafe. To get the right texture, watch the cooking time and temperature closely.
Another mistake is not leaving enough space between the cheese sticks. This can stop them from cooking evenly. Make sure they have room to crisp up right.
It’s a myth to thaw the cheese sticks before cooking. Cooking them frozen keeps their shape and texture. This way, they stay crunchy on the outside and gooey inside.
Checklist: Avoiding Cooking Mistakes
- Resist the temptation to overcook or burn the mozzarella cheese sticks
- Ensure proper spacing on the cooking surface for even heat distribution
- Don’t thaw the cheese sticks before cooking – cook them straight from the frozen state
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oven Baking | 400°F | 12 minutes |
| Air Frying | 360°F | 1 minute 15 seconds |
| Deep Frying | 350°F | 2-2.5 minutes |
By following these tips and watching your cooking, you can make perfect Costco mozzarella cheese snacks. Avoid common mistakes and enjoy the mozzarella cheese sticks recipe to the fullest.
Conclusion
Costco’s mozzarella cheese sticks are perfect for parties. They can be cooked in many ways, like air frying, baking, or deep frying. Just follow the guidelines for the best results.
Costco offers great deals on these cheese sticks. You can have plenty for your next party. Pair them with your favorite sauces and dishes for a memorable event.
Don’t forget to store and reheat leftovers well. This way, you can enjoy Costco mozzarella cheese sticks long after the party. With practice, you’ll impress everyone with your cooking skills and create amazing dining moments.