This recipe makes crunchy, cheesy sticks that taste great. They use cottage cheese and mozzarella for a soft, cheesy inside and a golden outside. If you like simple home treats, try this easy snack and also check a tasty classic oatmeal cake for dessert ideas.
Why make this recipe
You can make these sticks fast with simple food. They use common items and cook in the oven. They are lower in fat than some fried cheese sticks because they use cottage cheese and bake instead of deep fry. Kids and adults both enjoy them.
How to make Cottage Cheese Cheese Sticks
Mix the ingredients well, shape into sticks, and bake until golden. Follow the steps below and keep the sticks the same size so they cook evenly.
Ingredients :
1 cup of cottage cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat), 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, Salt and pepper to taste, Cooking spray or olive oil for frying
Directions :
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C)., Combine cottage cheese, mozzarella, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl., Shape the mixture into sticks about 4 inches long and 1 inch wide., Place cheese sticks on a lined baking sheet and spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil., Bake for about 15 minutes until golden brown.
How to serve Cottage Cheese Cheese Sticks
Serve warm with simple dips. Good choices are marinara sauce, ranch, or plain yogurt mixed with herbs. Put the sticks on a plate and offer small bowls of dip so people can pick what they like.
How to store Cottage Cheese Cheese Sticks
Cool the sticks to room temperature. Put them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or until warm and crisp.
Tips to make Cottage Cheese Cheese Sticks
- Dry the cottage cheese a little on a paper towel if it feels very wet. This helps the mix hold shape.
- Use the same size for each stick so they bake evenly.
- If you want a crisper outside, brush a little olive oil on the sticks before baking.
- For another savory idea with cottage cheese, try this simple cottage cheese flatbread recipe.
Variation
- Add chopped herbs like parsley or basil for fresh flavor.
- Stir in small pieces of cooked bacon or pepperoni for a meat option.
- Try different cheeses like cheddar or smoked mozzarella for a different taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze these cheese sticks?
A: Yes. Freeze on a tray first, then move to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes.
Q: Can I fry these instead of baking?
A: Yes. Heat oil in a pan and fry until golden. Frying makes them crispier but adds more oil.
Q: Are these gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make them gluten-free. Check all labels to be sure.
Q: Can I make them smaller for kids?
A: Yes. Make smaller sticks and reduce bake time by a few minutes.
Q: Can I make them dairy-free?
A: Not with cottage cheese. You could try a plant-based soft cheese and dairy-free shredded cheese, but texture will change.
Conclusion
These cottage cheese sticks are easy to make and taste great as a snack or party food. For more bread and flatbread ideas that pair well with cheesy snacks, see this list of 21 unique sourdough add-ins. If you want a quick bread to serve with the sticks, try this quick and easy cheese flatbread.
Cottage Cheese Cheese Sticks
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup cottage cheese Dry slightly on a paper towel if too wet.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Can substitute with other cheeses.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Preferably whole wheat.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Baking
- Cooking spray or olive oil For brushing before baking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine cottage cheese, mozzarella, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into sticks about 4 inches long and 1 inch wide.
- Place cheese sticks on a lined baking sheet and spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
Baking
- Bake for about 15 minutes until golden brown.