Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Cheesy – A crunchy breadcrumb coating with gooey, melted mozzarella inside.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and steps make this a quick and fun recipe.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or movie nights.
• Customizable – Switch up the seasonings or use different cheeses for variety.
• Great for Dipping – Serve with marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 12 mozzarella sticks
• 1 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Oil for frying

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Freeze the Cheese – Place mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from melting too quickly while frying.

2. Prepare Breading Stations – Set up three bowls:

   • One with flour
   • One with beaten eggs
   • One with a mix of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper

3. Coat the Cheese Sticks – Roll each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, then dip in the beaten egg, and finally coat in the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for a double coating to ensure crispiness.

4. Heat the Oil – In a deep pan, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

5. Fry Until Golden – Fry the coated mozzarella sticks in batches for about 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

6. Serve – Enjoy immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Freezing Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Baked Mozzarella Sticks – Instead of frying, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy.
• Air Fryer Option – Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Spicy Twist – Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
• Different Cheeses – Try using cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone.
• Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Keep leftover cheese sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.
• Freezing – Freeze uncooked, breaded mozzarella sticks for up to 3 months. Fry or bake directly from frozen.

FAQs

Why do my mozzarella sticks explode while frying?

This happens if they aren’t frozen long enough. Ensure they are frozen solid before frying.

Can I use string cheese for mozzarella sticks?

Yes! String cheese works perfectly for this recipe.

What oil is best for frying mozzarella sticks?

Use neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for best results.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Bread the mozzarella sticks and freeze them. Fry when ready to serve.

How do I get extra crispy mozzarella sticks?

Double-coating them in breadcrumbs ensures a crispy texture.

Can I use panko breadcrumbs?

Yes, panko breadcrumbs create an even crunchier coating.

What can I serve with mozzarella sticks?

Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or honey mustard are great dipping options.

Can I fry them without oil?

Yes! Use an air fryer for a healthier version.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the cheese sticks and double-coat them for better adhesion.

Are these mozzarella sticks vegetarian?

Yes, but check that the Parmesan cheese used is vegetarian-friendly.

Conclusion

Homemade mozzarella cheese sticks are an easy and delicious snack that’s crispy on the outside and perfectly cheesy inside. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, they’re a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Try this recipe and enjoy restaurant-quality cheese sticks right at home!

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Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

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• Author: Ava
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 Servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These homemade mozzarella cheese sticks are crispy on the outside and filled with gooey, melted cheese inside. Coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture and fried to perfection, they make the ultimate appetizer, snack, or party treat. Serve with warm marinara sauce for the perfect bite!

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Ingredients

• 12 mozzarella sticks (or string cheese)
• 1 cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1½ cups breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Oil for frying

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Instructions

1. Freeze the Cheese

   • Place mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to prevent melting while frying.

2. Set Up Breading Stations

   • Bowl 1: Flour
   • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
   • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper

3. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks

   • Roll each frozen cheese stick in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
   • Double-coat by dipping back into the egg and breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

4. Heat the Oil

   • In a deep pan, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

5. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

   • Fry in batches for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
   • Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

6. Serve & Enjoy

   • Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

• Extra Crispy: Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
• Healthier Options:
  • Baked: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes.
  • Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
• Cheese Variations: Try with cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American