Description
Crispy homemade mozzarella sticks with a golden, crunchy coating and gooey cheese center. Perfect for snacking, parties, or appetizers, this easy recipe is beginner-friendly and customizable for all tastes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (or string cheese)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (whisked)
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Cut mozzarella sticks in half (optional) and set aside.
- Set Up Breading Stations:
- In a shallow dish, place the flour.
- In a second dish, whisk the eggs.
- In a third dish, mix breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bread the Cheese Sticks:
- Roll each mozzarella stick in the flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, coating completely.
- Roll in the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently for adherence.
- Optional: Repeat egg and breadcrumb steps for extra crispy coating.
- Place coated sticks on a lined baking sheet.
- Freeze:
- Freeze the breaded sticks for at least 1–2 hours to prevent cheese leakage.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a skillet, heat 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Fry a few sticks at a time for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve:
- Serve warm with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5–7 minutes for best results.
- Freezing: Uncooked breaded sticks can be frozen for up to 3 months; cook from frozen.
- Air Fryer Option: Spray with oil and air fry at 375°F for 6–8 minutes.
- Baked Option: Bake on a parchment-lined tray at 400°F for 10–12 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: frying
- Cuisine: American-Italian
Keywords: Homemade mozzarella sticks Easy appetizer recipe Crispy mozzarella sticks Party snacks Comfort food recipes