Go Back
Crispy mozzarella sticks are a quintessential appetizer that has won the hearts of snack enthusiasts around the world. Whether served at a bustling restaurant or enjoyed during a cozy night in, these golden-brown delights are a staple for any cheese lover. Their combination of gooey, melted cheese encased in a crunchy, flavorful coating creates a mouthwatering experience that keeps people coming back for more. While you can find mozzarella sticks in the frozen aisle of your local supermarket, nothing quite compares to the satisfaction of making them from scratch. Homemade mozzarella sticks not only allow for a fresher taste but also give you the creative freedom to customize flavors and ingredients to suit your palate.

Crispy Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with homemade crispy mozzarella sticks! This deliciously cheesy appetizer features gooey mozzarella encased in a perfectly crunchy coating, making it a must-try for cheese lovers. Our guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to prepare, fry, and serve these delightful snacks, complete with flavor-enhancing tips and serving suggestions. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a cozy evening in—get ready for a cheesy treat that everyone will love!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into ½-inch sticks

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, and thyme)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

Marinara sauce, for dipping (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prep the Cheese: Begin by carefully cutting the fresh mozzarella into ½-inch thick sticks. To ensure they crisp up nicely, pat the cheese sticks dry with a paper towel to eliminate any excess moisture.

    Set Up Your Dredging Station: Create a three-bowl setup for dredging the cheese sticks. In the first shallow bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, crack and whisk together the two large eggs until well combined. In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

      Coat the Cheese Sticks: Take each mozzarella stick and first dip it into the flour, thoroughly coating it, then shake off any excess. Next, immerse the floured stick in the beaten eggs, allowing extra egg to drip back into the bowl. Lastly, roll the cheese stick in the seasoned breadcrumb mix, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs stick well. Continue this process until all sticks are coated.

        Chill the Coated Sticks: Arrange the breaded mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the sheet in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential as it helps to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.

          Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, pour enough oil to reach about 2 inches in depth. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles and turns golden quickly, the oil is ready.

            Fry the Cheese Sticks: Carefully add a few mozzarella sticks to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the sticks for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

              Serve: Arrange the golden, crispy mozzarella sticks on a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately while hot, accompanied by marinara sauce for dipping if desired. Indulge in the cheesy delight!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour (including freeze time) | Servings: Makes 12 sticks