Homemade Mozzarella Sticks
Homemade Mozzarella Sticks are a crunchy, cheesy treat that's perfect for snacking or sharing. Imagine crisp golden breading on the outside giving way to gooey, melty mozzarella cheese inside. It's…
Tip: save now, cook later.Homemade Mozzarella Sticks are a crunchy, cheesy treat that’s perfect for snacking or sharing. Imagine crisp golden breading on the outside giving way to gooey, melty mozzarella cheese inside. It’s like the classic appetizer you find at your favorite restaurant, but made right in your own kitchen.
I love making these mozzarella sticks because it’s so satisfying to watch the cheese stretch when you take a bite. A little tip I have is to freeze the sticks before frying, so the cheese stays inside and doesn’t melt too quickly. It makes the whole process less messy and way more enjoyable.
These sticks are great on their own, but I like dipping them in a simple marinara sauce for a little extra flavor. They always bring back fun memories of movie nights or casual get-togethers, and I find that kids and adults alike can’t get enough of them. Homemade mozzarella sticks are a fun and tasty way to brighten up any day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: String cheese is perfect for easy portioning and melts well. If you can’t find these, block mozzarella cut into sticks works just as great. For a lighter option, part-skim mozzarella can be used.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs give great flavor, but panko mixed with Italian herbs is a nice crunchy alternative. You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free option.
Eggs & Flour: These help the coating stick. If you’re vegan or avoiding eggs, try using a mixture of water and flour or a vegan egg substitute to bind breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty touch to the coating. If you can’t use dairy, you can skip it or try nutritional yeast for a similar savory kick.
How Do You Keep the Cheese from Melting Out During Frying?
The key is freezing the coated mozzarella sticks well before frying. This helps the cheese stay solid longer inside the hot oil and prevents mess.
- Freeze the sticks uncoated first, then coat and freeze again before frying.
- This double freezing step keeps the cheese firm and the coating crispy.
- Don’t overcrowd the fryer, so the oil temperature stays high and crisps up the outside quickly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Deep pot or deep fryer – perfect for frying sticks evenly and safely.
- Slotted spoon – helps you lift out mozzarella sticks without carrying extra oil.
- Three shallow bowls – for flour, egg wash, and breadcrumb mixtures to keep the coating process organized.
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper – great for freezing the coated sticks without sticking.
- Thermometer – useful to keep oil at the right temperature for crisp frying.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a mild spicy kick.
- Mix Italian herbs like oregano and basil into the breadcrumbs to boost flavor.
- Add finely chopped cooked bacon to the breadcrumb mix for a smoky twist.
- For a veggie boost, serve with a side of roasted red pepper or garlic marinara sauce.
How to Make Homemade Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Mozzarella Sticks:
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks (or block mozzarella cut into sticks)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk or water
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (or panko mixed with Italian seasoning)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and coat the cheese sticks, plus at least 1.5 hours for freezing (including initial freezing and after coating). Frying only takes a few minutes. So plan for about 2 hours total, mostly hands-off freezing time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Freeze the Cheese Sticks:
Unwrap string cheese sticks and cut each in half if you want smaller portions. Lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. Freeze for at least 1 hour so the cheese firms up and won’t melt too fast when frying.
2. Set Up Your Coating Stations:
Use three shallow bowls. Put the flour in the first bowl. Whisk together the eggs and milk (or water) in the second. In the third, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Frozen Cheese Sticks:
One by one, coat each frozen stick first in flour, shaking off the extra. Then dip into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help it stick. For a crunchier coating that stays on well, dip them again in the egg, then again in the breadcrumbs for a double coating.
4. Freeze the Coated Sticks Again:
Place the coated sticks back on the baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes before frying. This helps the coating set and the cheese stay inside during frying.
5. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Don’t crowd the pot so the oil stays hot. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch and serve right away with warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the perfect crispy outside and melty, gooey cheese inside!
Can I Use Frozen Mozzarella Sticks for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen mozzarella sticks, but it’s best to thaw them slightly and pat them dry before breading to help the coating stick better. Keep them cold while breading for the best results.
How Should I Store Leftover Mozzarella Sticks?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to keep the coating crispy without melting the cheese too much.
Can I Bake Mozzarella Sticks Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! Spray the breaded sticks lightly with oil, place on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy. They won’t be quite as crispy as fried, but it’s a great healthier alternative.
What Can I Substitute for Italian Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have Italian breadcrumbs, use plain panko mixed with dried Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley. This mix adds plenty of flavor and lets you control the seasoning.