Cajun Cheese Sticks are a delightful and flavorful twist on the classic cheese sticks. These crispy, breaded sticks are infused with Cajun spices, giving them a spicy and zesty kick. Cajun cuisine originates from Louisiana and is known for its bold flavors and rich culinary heritage.
To prepare Cajun Cheese Sticks, string cheese or any type of cheese is coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture infused with Cajun spices. The cheese sticks are then fried or baked until golden and crispy, resulting in a satisfying combination of melted cheese and crunchy coating.
Spicy Cajun Cheese Sticks
Equipment
- 1 Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grate
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasonings
- 8 cheese sticks, kid-friendly
Instructions
- To begin, set up your breading station. Place the all-purpose flourin a dish. In a separate dish, whisk the eggs.
- Finally, mix the parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning in a third dish.
- Start by dredging the cheese sticks in the flour; then, dip them into the egg. Press the cheese sticks into the parmesan mixture, coating evenly
- Place the breaded cheese sticks in the lightly greased Dutchovenbasket. Cook with settings at 380 degrees F for 6 minutes.
- Serve with ketchup and enjoy!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Cooking Tip for Cajun Cheese Sticks:
To ensure the best results when making Cajun Cheese Sticks, consider the following cooking tip:
1. Properly Coat the Cheese: Before breading the cheese sticks, it’s important to freeze them for about 30 minutes. Freezing helps the cheese retain its shape during cooking and prevents excessive melting. Additionally, make sure to coat each cheese stick thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. This will result in a crispier and more evenly coated cheese stick.
2. Temperature Control: When frying the Cajun Cheese Sticks, maintain a consistent oil temperature. Heat the oil to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the cheese sticks. This temperature ensures that the coating crisps up quickly without allowing the cheese to melt too much. Using a thermometer can help you monitor the oil temperature accurately.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the Cajun Cheese Sticks in small batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can cause the oil temperature to drop, resulting in greasier and less crispy cheese sticks. Leave enough space between each stick to allow for even cooking and browning.
4. Preheating the Oven: If you prefer baking the Cajun Cheese Sticks instead of frying, preheat the oven to a high temperature, typically around 425°F (220°C). Preheating ensures that the cheese sticks cook evenly and develop a crispy outer coating while the cheese inside melts to perfection. You can also use an air fryer for this recipe. Click here for more details.
5. Use Parchment Paper: When baking the Cajun Cheese Sticks, line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the cheese sticks from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup easier. It also helps in achieving a crispy texture on the bottom of the cheese sticks.
6. Let Them Rest: After cooking, allow the Cajun Cheese Sticks to rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This short resting period allows the cheese to cool slightly, making it easier to handle and reducing the risk of burning your mouth. It also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
By following these cooking tips, you’ll be able to create delicious and perfectly crispy Cajun Cheese Sticks that are bursting with spicy flavor. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, these cheesy treats are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a quick snack for yourself. Enjoy the irresistible combination of melted cheese and Cajun spices!
Serving Suggestion for Cajun Cheese Sticks:
Cajun Cheese Sticks are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here’s a serving suggestion to enhance your Cajun Cheese Stick experience:
1. Dipping Sauces: Serve Cajun Cheese Sticks with a selection of flavorful dipping sauces. Classic options like marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy Cajun aioli complement the spiciness of the cheese sticks while adding a creamy and tangy element. Consider offering a variety of sauces to cater to different taste preferences.
2. Fresh Salsa: Pair Cajun Cheese Sticks with a vibrant and refreshing fresh salsa. Prepare a salsa using diced tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. The crispness and acidity of the salsa balance the richness of the cheese sticks, providing a delightful contrast of flavors.
3. Cajun Slaw: Create a Cajun-inspired slaw to serve alongside the cheese sticks. Toss shredded cabbage, carrots, and sliced bell peppers with a dressing made from mayonnaise, Cajun seasoning, vinegar, and a touch of honey. This slaw adds a crunchy texture and a spicy kick that complements the cheese sticks perfectly.
4. Salad Greens: Create a light and fresh meal by serving Cajun Cheese Sticks over a bed of salad greens. Arrange mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onions on a plate. Place the warm cheese sticks on top, allowing them to slightly wilt the greens. Drizzle with your favorite dressing or a tangy vinaigrette for a satisfying and well-balanced dish.
5. Cajun Cheese Stick Sandwiches: Transform the Cajun Cheese Sticks into a satisfying meal by using them as the filling for a sandwich. Slice the cheese sticks in half lengthwise and place them between slices of toasted French bread or ciabatta. Add lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and a spread of spicy mayo or remoulade sauce for a flavorful Cajun-inspired sandwich.
6. Appetizer Platter: Create a tantalizing appetizer platter by serving Cajun Cheese Sticks alongside other savory bites. Include items like chicken wings, mini sliders, vegetable skewers, and crispy fried shrimp. This allows your guests to sample a variety of flavors and textures while enjoying the spiciness of the cheese sticks.
Remember to serve Cajun Cheese Sticks while they are still warm and crispy for the best experience. Whether as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger meal, these flavorful cheese sticks are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the combination of spicy Cajun seasoning and gooey cheese in every bite!