Baked Mozzarella Bites

I recently saw a recipe for baked  mozzarella sticks and decided to try it.  Who doesn't love melted cheese? This is a great appetizer for drop in guests or a satisfying snack when you get a little hungry during a "Polar Vortex". This recipe can be made low fat and gluten free. Feel free to experiment with your favorite crumbs and spices.

These three ingredients plus an egg.  It does not get easier than that.

Mix the bread crumbs with the oil and place in a 350F oven for 5-10 minutes to brown.  Stir occasionally.  This crisps the bread crumbs and will make the outside of the cheese brown and crispy.

Cut the string cheese into thirds.

Dip in beaten egg and roll in bread crumbs to cover; repeat.

Place on foil lined baking sheet and bake 10-15 minutes.

Serve with warm marinara sauce. Yum!

Baked Mozzarella Bites

6 string cheese sticks (unwrapped and cut into thirds)
1 cup of Italian bread crumbs
1 Tablespoon canola or olive oil
1 egg beaten
1/2 cup of marinara sauce

Mix bread crumbs and oil in a small oven proof dish.  Bake for 5-10 minutes at 350F until brown, stir occasionally. Dip pieces of cheese into beaten egg, coat with bread crumbs; repeat.  Place on foil lined baking sheet.  Repeat with remaining cheese.  Bake for 10-15 minutes at 350F.  Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

*Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated on baking sheet until ready to bake.
*Low fat string cheese can be substituted