You’re standing in front of the fridge, staring at the box of mozzarella sticks that’s been taunting you all week. You want to eat them, but you’re not sure if they can be cooked in the microwave.
After all, cheese is a delicate food, and you don’t want to end up with a gooey mess. But then again, you’re really hungry and don’t feel like waiting for the oven to preheat. What should you do?
Well, that’s why I’m here. I’ll tell you everything you need to know about microwaving mozzarella sticks, including whether or not it’s safe to do so and what tips you need to follow to get the perfect result.
Can You Microwave Mozzarella Sticks?
The short answer is yes, you can microwave mozzarella sticks. Whether you make your own at home or buy them frozen from the grocery store, they can be cooked in the microwave without any problems. Some brands such as Snapps, Farm Rich, and TGI Fridays all have cooking instructions that include the microwave.
However, just because you can microwave mozzarella sticks doesn’t mean the microwave will give you the best results. This is because you won’t get that crispy, golden-brown exterior that you would if you cooked them in the oven.
The sticks also have a tendency to explode in the microwave. It doesn’t make them unsafe to eat, but it can be a bit of a mess. If you’re okay with a trade-off, then microwaving is an easy and quick way to cook your mozzarella sticks.
Is It Safe to Microwave Mozzarella Sticks?
Microwaving mozzarella sticks is a convenient way to cook them, but some people may be unsure if it is safe to do so. The truth is that it is safe to microwave mozzarella sticks as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you want to be extra safe, aim to reach an internal temperature of 165 F. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature of the cheese in the middle of the stick.
Another thing to keep in mind is to make sure the sticks are stored properly prior to cooking to avoid any foodborne illness. This means keeping them refrigerated or frozen until you’re ready to cook them.
How Long to Microwave Mozzarella Sticks
The cooking time for mozzarella sticks will vary depending on how many you’re cooking at once, the wattage of your microwave, and whether or not they’re frozen. Usually, frozen mozzarella sticks will take about 1-2 minutes to cook on high.
If your mozzarella sticks are frozen, you can cook them straight from the freezer. There’s no need to thaw them first but remember to add an extra minute or two to the cooking time. I would recommend checking them every 30 seconds or so to avoid overcooking.
How to Cook Mozzarella Sticks In the Microwave
Now that you know all the basics, it’s time to learn how to cook mozzarella sticks in the microwave. This process is quick and easy, and you’ll have cheesy goodness in no time.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Place the mozzarella sticks on a microwave-safe plate or tray and arrange them in a single layer.
- Cook on high for 30 seconds. Flip the sticks over and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Check to see if the sticks are cooked through. You can do this by cutting one in half to check the center. If it’s still cold, continue cooking in 30-second intervals until they’re done.
- Once they’re cooked, carefully remove them from the microwave and let them cool for a minute or two before serving.
And that’s it! You now know how to cook mozzarella sticks in the microwave.
Why Do My Mozzarella Sticks Always Explode?
As I mentioned earlier, mozzarella sticks tend to explode in the microwave. This happens because the cheese is heated and starts to expand until it reaches a point where the coat can no longer contain it.
When this happens, the cheese will explode out of the coat, and cheese goo will ooze all over your microwave. The good news is that there’s nothing wrong with the mozzarella sticks, and they still taste just as good and are safe to eat.
For frozen mozzarella sticks, I still have yet to find a way to prevent them from exploding.
However, if you make them homemade, you can double coat them. This means dipping them in the egg and breadcrumb mixture again after you’ve already coated them once. This extra coat helps to create a barrier and prevents the cheese from exploding.
How to Store and Reheat Microwave Mozzarella Sticks
If you’re anything like me, you love mozzarella sticks. But sometimes, it’s hard to finish an entire order of them by yourself. And if you’re not careful, they can go bad quickly. So what’s the best way to store mozzarella sticks so that they stay fresh and delicious?
The best way to store mozzarella sticks is by putting them in an airtight container and keeping them in the fridge. This will help to keep them fresh for up to 5 days.
If you’d like to freeze them, place them in a freezer bag and squeeze out as much air as possible. They will stay fresh for up to two months.
To reheat mozzarella sticks, place them on a microwavable plate and nuke on high for 30 seconds-1 minute, or until heated through.
Alternatives to Microwaving
If you prefer not to use the microwave, there are other ways that you can cook your mozzarella sticks.
One alternative is to bake them. This is a healthier option since you’re not using oil, and it’s also pretty easy to do.
Just preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, line a baking sheet with wax paper, and arrange the sticks in a single layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Another option is to fry them. This will give you that classic, crispy mozzarella stick taste. Just heat some oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the sticks for a few minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
What to Eat with Microwave Mozzarella Sticks
When it comes to microwave mozzarella sticks, few things go better with them than a fresh salad.
The cool, crisp greens are the perfect complement to the cheesy, greasy goodness of the mozzarella sticks, and the dipping sauce provides just the right amount of zing.
If you’re looking for something a little heartier, garlic bread or even guacamole can be a great choice.
No matter what dip you choose, it’s important to make sure that it’s something that will pair well with the mozzarella sticks.
And if you’re looking for something to complete the meal, grilled fish is always a good option.
Wrapping It Up
So, can you microwave mozzarella sticks? Yes, you can! And now you know all the tips and tricks to make perfectly microwave mozzarella sticks. Just remember to cook them in 30-second intervals and to let them cool for a minute or two before serving.
If you’re looking for something to eat with your mozzarella sticks, a fresh salad is always a great choice. And if you’re looking for something heartier, garlic bread or guacamole can be a great option. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what you like best!
