These mozzarella sticks are the perfect snack! Crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside, they are a cheesy delight that everyone loves. They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce!
Who can resist that melting cheese when you take a bite? I always find myself going back for a second (or third!) serving, and they’re great for sharing—if you want to! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: Use string cheese for convenient portions. If you have a block of mozzarella, just cut it into sticks. For a twist, try using a flavored mozzarella, like garlic or basil.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs give great flavor, but panko breadcrumbs work well too for an extra crunch. You can also make your own by processing stale bread with herbs!
Seasonings: Customize your flavor! Instead of garlic and onion powder, consider adding smoked paprika for a different kick or some spices like red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Oil: Vegetable oil is great for frying, but canola or peanut oil also does the job while providing a high smoke point for frying without burning.
What’s the Best Way to Make Sure My Cheese Stays Inside During Frying?
A common problem with mozzarella sticks is the cheese spilling out while frying. Here’s how to prevent that:
- Freeze the breaded sticks for at least 1 hour. This firm temperature helps keep the cheese intact while frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the frying pot, as this lowers the oil temperature and could result in uneven cooking.
- Keep the oil at 350°F (175°C). A good thermometer will help you monitor this to keep everything perfectly crispy without overcooking the cheese.
How Can I Make My Mozzarella Sticks Extra Crispy?
For that ultimate crunch, try these tips:
- Double breading: Dip the sticks in breadcrumbs a second time after the egg wash for a thicker coating.
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones—they’re lighter and airier, which makes for a better crunch!
- Fry in small batches so they can brown evenly without steaming each other.
Enjoy making your mozzarella sticks a crowd-pleaser!
How to Make Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mozzarella Sticks:
- 12 sticks of mozzarella cheese (string cheese or mozzarella cut into sticks)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (or panko mixed with Italian seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 1-2 minutes to fry. However, don’t forget to account for the freezing time of at least 1 hour, which is crucial to keep the cheese from melting out during frying. So, all together, you’ll need about 1 hour and 20 minutes before you can enjoy your delicious mozzarella sticks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheese:
If you’re using block mozzarella, cut it into sticks about 3-4 inches long. If you have string cheese, you’re all set! These will be your cheesy centers.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
In one shallow bowl, add the flour. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well blended. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. This will make your breading flavorful!
3. Bread the Sticks:
Start by coating each mozzarella stick with flour. Make sure to shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the stick into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until completely covered. For extra crunch, feel free to dip and roll again in the egg and breadcrumbs for a second layer!
4. Freeze for Best Results:
Place the breaded sticks on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for at least 1 hour. This step is important to keep the cheese from spilling out when frying.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep fryer or a large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer to check this, or if you don’t have one, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready!
6. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
Carefully place a few frozen mozzarella sticks into the hot oil. Fry them for about 1-2 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid adding too many at once; you want them to fry evenly.
7. Drain and Serve:
Once they’re fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the mozzarella sticks and drain them on paper towels. This helps remove excess oil.
8. Enjoy with Marinara Sauce:
Serve your crispy mozzarella sticks warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy, crunchy bite!
Your delicious homemade mozzarella sticks are ready to impress! Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses that melt well, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or cheddar for a different flavor. Just ensure they are in stick form to maintain consistency when frying.
How Can I Make These Mozzarella Sticks Healthier?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try baking instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly spray or brush them with oil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Can I Prepare the Sticks in Advance?
Yes! You can bread the mozzarella sticks ahead of time and freeze them (step 4). They can be frozen for up to a month. Just fry them directly from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy them—no need to thaw!