Here’s a classic Mozzarella Cheese Sticks recipe—crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside 🧀✨
Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
Ingredients (makes ~12 sticks)
- 12 sticks of mozzarella cheese (string cheese works great)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned or plain)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional: marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare cheese sticks
- Unwrap mozzarella sticks and cut in half if desired.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze 30–60 minutes (this helps prevent melting while frying).
- Set up breading stations
- Bowl 1: flour
- Bowl 2: eggs + milk, beaten
- Bowl 3: breadcrumbs + garlic powder, salt, pepper
- Coat cheese
- Dredge each frozen stick in flour → dip in egg → coat with breadcrumbs.
- For extra crispiness, repeat the egg + breadcrumb step for a double coating.
- Freeze again 15–30 minutes before frying.
- Fry
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry cheese sticks in batches 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
- Do not overcrowd the pan.
- Drain & serve
- Place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately with marinara sauce or ranch.
Tips & Variations
- Oven version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes until golden (best with frozen sticks).
- Spicy: Mix paprika, cayenne, or chili powder into the breadcrumbs.
- Cheese variety: Use provolone, pepper jack, or cheddar for a twist.
- Air fryer option: Fry at 400°F for 6–8 minutes for a lighter version.
I can also give a garlic-parmesan crusted version or a stuffed mozzarella stick with herbs if you want.
