Description
Cottage Cheese Sticks are a crispy, golden snack with a soft, cheesy center. They are easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or side dish, these sticks pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces.
Introduction
If you love cheesy snacks with a crunchy exterior and a creamy interior, Cottage Cheese Sticks are a must-try. Made with simple ingredients and ready in minutes, they are a great alternative to traditional cheese sticks while offering a lighter texture and rich flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cheese sticks are quick to make and customizable. They are crispy on the outside, melty inside, and work equally well for casual snacking or entertaining guests. You can fry or bake them depending on your preference.
Ingredients
1 cup cottage cheese, pressed or firm type
½ cup grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese
1 egg
2 tablespoons cornstarch
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Oil for frying
Optional Coating for Extra Crunch
½ cup flour
1 beaten egg
½ cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, grated cheese, egg, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Mix well until the mixture is thick and holds together.
Shape the mixture into stick shapes using your hands or a mold.
If using the coating, dip each stick first into flour, then into the beaten egg, and finally into breadcrumbs.
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
Fry the sticks for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Make
Prepare a firm cheese mixture that can be easily shaped.
Form into sticks and coat if desired.
Fry at medium heat until evenly golden and crispy.
Drain and serve immediately while warm and gooey.
Variations
Bake instead of frying for a lighter version at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes.
Use paneer or halloumi for a firmer texture.
Add chopped herbs like parsley or oregano for extra flavor.
Mix in chili flakes or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Serve with marinara, garlic dip, spicy mayo, or honey mustard.
Tips for Best Results
Lightly press the cottage cheese to remove excess moisture.
Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure even frying.
Use medium heat to avoid burning the outside before the inside cooks.
Chill the shaped sticks for 15–20 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.
Serve immediately for the best texture.
Storage Tips
Cottage Cheese Sticks are best enjoyed fresh.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as an appetizer with dipping sauces.
Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
Add to a snack platter alongside fries, nuggets, or vegetable sticks.
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, baking works well and gives a lighter result.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze the shaped sticks before frying, then cook directly from frozen.
What type of cottage cheese is best?
Use firm or pressed cottage cheese for the best texture.
Conclusion
Cottage Cheese Sticks are a simple yet irresistible snack that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, they are guaranteed to be a hit whenever you serve them.