Crispy Mozzarella Sticks

Crispy Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate appetizer or snack that everyone loves! With a crunchy golden crust and gooey melted cheese inside, they’re irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re hosting a party or indulging in a cozy night at home, these mozzarella sticks are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

One game night, I decided to make something extra special for the family. These Crispy Mozzarella Sticks were a hit! My husband couldn’t get enough of the cheesy goodness, and the kids were fighting over the last one. Now, they’ve become a staple for every family gathering and celebration, and no movie night is complete without them.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Mozzarella Sticks

•Perfectly Crunchy: Achieve a restaurant-quality crunch every time.

•Gooey Cheese Heaven: The melted mozzarella inside is pure bliss.

•Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and steps make these easy to whip up.

•Customizable: Add your favorite dipping sauces for endless flavor options.

Ingredients Notes For Crispy Mozzarella Sticks

•Mozzarella Sticks: Use whole milk mozzarella string cheese for the best texture.

•Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

•Seasoning: Garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning add a flavorful kick.

•Egg Wash: Helps the breadcrumbs stick evenly to the cheese.

•Flour: Ensures the egg and breadcrumbs adhere properly.

Recipe Steps

1.Prepare the Cheese: Cut string cheese sticks in half if desired. Freeze for at least 1 hour to prevent melting during frying.

2.Set Up the Coating Station: Prepare three bowls: flour in one, beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning in the third.

3.Coat the Cheese: Roll each stick in flour, dip in the egg wash, and coat in the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat for an extra-thick crust.

4.Fry or Bake: Frying Option: Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Baking Option: Place sticks on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes or until crisp.

5.Serve: Serve hot with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Storage Options

•Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

•Freeze: Freeze uncooked sticks after coating. Fry or bake straight from the freezer when ready.

Variations & Substitutions

•Cheese Variety: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, pepper jack, or Colby cheese for a twist.

•Spice It Up: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.

•Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a celiac-friendly option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these in an air fryer? Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: Why freeze the cheese beforehand? Freezing ensures the cheese doesn’t melt too quickly during cooking.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! Coat the sticks and freeze them until you’re ready to fry or bake.

Crispy Mozzarella Sticks are a classic for a reason—they’re simple, satisfying, and downright delicious. Whether you’re dipping them in marinara or enjoying them plain, you’re in for a treat!

Crispy Mozzarella Sticks

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Course: Appetizer, Snack

Kitchen: American, Italian

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 12 sticks

Ingredients

 

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• ▢ 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
• ▢ 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ▢ 2 large eggs beaten
• ▢ 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• ▢ 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• ▢ Salt and black pepper to taste
• ▢ Vegetable oil for frying
• ▢ Marinara sauce for serving

Instructions

• Prepare the Cheese Sticks: Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and cut each in half to make 12 shorter sticks. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour to prevent melting during frying.
• Set Up Breading Stations: In three separate shallow dishes, place:
• Flour in the first dish.
• Beaten eggs in the second dish.
• A mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper in the third dish.
• Bread the Cheese Sticks:
• Dredge each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, ensuring it’s fully coated.
• Dip into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
• Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
• Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a thicker coating.
• Re-freeze: Place the breaded mozzarella sticks back on the baking sheet and freeze for an additional 15-20 minutes to set the coating.
• Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Working in small batches, fry the mozzarella sticks for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
• Serve: Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.