Crispy Mozzarella Sticks
Homemade mozzarella sticks with a golden, crispy coating and melty cheese inside. Perfect for family snacking, parties, or game nights.
Ingredients
- 16 oz 450 g mozzarella cheese block, cut into sticks 3 ½ inches long and ½ inch thick (or use string cheese for convenience)
- 1 cup 120 g all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs beaten
- 2 tbsp milk
- 2 cups 200 g seasoned Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 cup 100 g panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp dried oregano or basil
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 cup marinara sauce for serving
- Ranch or garlic aioli optional
Instructions
- Cut mozzarella into sticks or use string cheese, place on a parchment-lined tray, and freeze for at least 1 hour to keep the cheese from leaking while cooking.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with eggs whisked with milk, and one with breadcrumbs, panko, and seasonings.
- Coat each frozen stick in flour, dip in egg wash, then cover with breadcrumbs. Repeat the egg wash and breadcrumbs for a double coating. Place back on the tray and freeze for 30–60 minutes.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry 6–8 sticks at a time for 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with marinara.
- For baking, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), spray sticks with oil, and bake 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. For air frying, preheat to 390°F (200°C), spray with oil, and cook 6–7 minutes, turning once.