Cottage Cheese Sticks Recipe
Introduction
Cottage Cheese Sticks are a lighter, high-protein alternative to traditional mozzarella sticks. Made with crumbled or pressed cottage cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, they’re crispy, flavorful, and satisfying. You can bake, fry, or air-fry them — they’ll turn out golden and crunchy every time.These make a perfect guilt-free snack for kids and adults alike, packed with calcium and protein!
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes (air fryer or pan)
Total time: 25–27 minutes
Servings: 10–12 sticks
Ingredients
For the Cheese Mixture:
1 cup cottage cheese (pressed dry or drained of excess liquid)
¼ cup grated mozzarella or cheddar (for binding)
2 tablespoons cornstarch or rice flour
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (or gluten-free substitute)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley or coriander
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
For Coating:
½ cup flour (for dusting)
1 egg, beaten (or 2 tablespoons milk for vegetarian option)
¾ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
For Cooking:
1 tablespoon oil spray (for air fryer or baking)
or oil for shallow frying
Instructions
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
If using wet cottage cheese, place it in a cheesecloth or paper towel and press to remove moisture.
In a bowl, combine cottage cheese, mozzarella, cornstarch, flour, parsley, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
Mix until a soft dough forms that holds together when pressed.
Shape the Sticks
Divide the mixture into 10–12 equal portions.
Shape each into small finger-sized sticks (about 3 inches long).
Place shaped sticks on a plate and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
Coat the Sticks
Roll each stick lightly in flour.
Dip in beaten egg (or milk).
Roll in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
For extra crunch, double coat: repeat egg and breadcrumb steps.
Cook the Sticks
Air Fryer Method:
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Lightly spray the basket with oil.
Arrange sticks in a single layer, spray tops lightly with oil.
Air fry 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Pan-Frying Method:
Heat 2–3 tablespoons oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat.
Fry sticks for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Drain on paper towels.
Oven-Baked Method:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking tray with parchment and spray lightly with oil.
Bake sticks for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Serve
Serve hot with your favorite dip — ketchup, garlic mayo, or spicy yogurt sauce.
Garnish with a sprinkle of herbs or grated cheese for a tasty finish.
Tips for Success
Make sure the cottage cheese isn’t watery — moisture prevents crispiness.
Add 1–2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
To make it spicy, mix in a pinch of chili powder or cayenne.
Refrigerating before cooking helps them hold their shape better.
Serving Suggestions
As a party appetizer with dipping sauces
Alongside soups or salads
Packed in a lunchbox snack for kids or work
Nutrition (Per 2 sticks)
Calories: ~150
Protein: 9g
Fat: 7g
Carbs: 10g
Calcium: High