Mozzarella Sticks 🧀

Mozzarella sticks are a classic appetizer that everyone loves—crispy, golden brown on the outside with gooey, melted cheese on the inside. They’re the ultimate snack for parties, game nights, or whenever you’re craving some cheesy goodness. This recipe ensures perfectly crunchy and delicious mozzarella sticks every time.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
• Baking sheet
• Wire rack
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Paper towels

Ingredients Overview

• Mozzarella Sticks: Use string cheese for a uniform size and easy handling.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko or Italian breadcrumbs give a crunchy coating.
• Eggs: Help the coating adhere to the cheese.
• Flour: Creates the first layer of coating for even breading.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning add flavor.
• Oil: Choose a neutral, high-smoke-point oil like vegetable or canola for frying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese

1. Cut mozzarella sticks in half if you prefer shorter pieces.
2. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 1–2 hours to prevent melting while frying.

2. Set Up the Breading Station

1. In one bowl, place flour seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
3. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning.

3. Bread the Mozzarella Sticks

1. Roll each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Dip it into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Press it into the breadcrumb mixture, covering all sides.
4. Repeat the egg wash and breadcrumbs step for a double coating.
5. Place breaded sticks back on the baking sheet and freeze for another 30 minutes.

4. Heat the Oil

1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a plate with paper towels for draining.

5. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

1. Fry the sticks in small batches for 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
2. Use tongs to remove them and place them on the paper towels to drain.

6. Serve

1. Serve hot with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Recipe Tips

• Double Coat: A second layer of breadcrumbs ensures no cheese escapes during frying.
• Keep Frozen: Always fry mozzarella sticks straight from the freezer to maintain their shape.
• Bake or Air Fry: For a healthier option, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes or air fry for 6–8 minutes.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Marinara sauce
• Ranch dressing
• Garlic aioli
• Sweet chili sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Bread them and freeze until ready to fry or bake.

What if I don’t have string cheese?
You can use a block of mozzarella and cut it into sticks.

Can I reheat leftover mozzarella sticks?
Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture. Avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy.

Ingredients

• 12 mozzarella sticks (string cheese)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian-style)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Freeze mozzarella sticks for 1–2 hours.
2. Set up breading station with seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
3. Coat sticks in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs, repeating egg wash and breadcrumbs for a double coat.
4. Freeze breaded sticks for 30 minutes.
5. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry in small batches for 1–2 minutes until golden.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy these crunchy, cheesy delights! 🧀✨

Mozzarella sticks are a classic appetizer

Mozzarella sticks are a classic appetizer that everyone loves—crispy, golden brown on the outside with gooey, melted cheese on the inside. They’re the ultimate snack for parties, game nights, or whenever you’re craving some cheesy goodness. This recipe ensures perfectly crunchy and delicious mozzarella sticks every time.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Equipment

• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
• Baking sheet
• Wire rack
• Mixing bowls 
• Tongs
• Paper towels

Ingredients

  

• 12 mozzarella sticks string cheese
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs beaten
• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs Panko or Italian-style
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable or canola oil for frying

Instructions

 

• Freeze mozzarella sticks for 1–2 hours.
• Set up breading station with seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
• Coat sticks in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs, repeating egg wash and breadcrumbs for a double coat.
• Freeze breaded sticks for 30 minutes.
• Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry in small batches for 1–2 minutes until golden.
• Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
• Enjoy these crunchy, cheesy delights!