Crispy Cheddar Mozzarella Sticks
These homemade crispy cheddar mozzarella sticks deliver a crunchy golden crust with gooey, stretchy cheese inside. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or quick snacks, they’re easy to prep ahead and taste even better than store-bought.
Ingredients
For the Cheese Sticks
- 12 sticks mozzarella string cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese or thin strips of cheddar pressed to the mozzarella
For the Breading
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 2 tbsp milk
- 2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs Italian-style preferred
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika optional for mild spice and color
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
For Frying
- Vegetable canola, or peanut oil (enough for deep-frying)
For Dipping
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic aioli
- Spicy sriracha mayo
Instructions
- Unwrap mozzarella sticks. If adding cheddar, press shredded or thin strips along the mozzarella. Freeze for 30–40 minutes so they hold up during frying.
- Set up three bowls: flour with a pinch of salt and pepper; whisked eggs with milk; and a mix of seasoned breadcrumbs, panko, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Roll frozen sticks in flour, dip in egg wash, then coat with breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg wash and breadcrumbs. Arrange on a parchment-lined tray and freeze again for 30 minutes.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry 3–4 sticks at a time for 2–3 minutes until crisp and golden. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
- For a lighter option, preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Lightly spray sticks with cooking spray and air fry 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.