I can’t tell you how satisfying it was to bite into these warm, gooey mozzarella sticks right after making them. Crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and bursting with flavor, they were so much better than anything I’ve had from a store or restaurant.

The recipe is straightforward, and you can even customize it to suit your preferences. Whether you’re frying, baking, or air-frying, you’ll end up with a delicious treat that’s bound to be a hit at any gathering or as a solo snack!

Credit: fifteenspatulas

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a batch of irresistibly cheesy mozzarella sticks:

Panko crumbs (1 ½ cups): This type of breadcrumb gives the coating a crispy texture. Crush them slightly with a rolling pin for the best results.
Italian seasoning (½ teaspoon): A blend of herbs that adds a subtle yet savory flavor. Don’t have it? Mix oregano, basil, and thyme for a homemade version.
Dried parsley (½ teaspoon): Enhances the coating’s flavor and gives it a pop of color.
Garlic powder (¼ teaspoon): Adds a warm, garlicky kick to complement the cheese.
Ground black pepper (½ teaspoon): Balances out the flavors with its mild heat.
Table salt (¼ teaspoon): Helps bring out all the delicious flavors of the cheese and coating.
Large eggs (2): Acts as the glue, helping the breadcrumbs stick to the cheese.
All-purpose flour (½ cup): Serves as the base layer for the dredging process. It also helps seal in the cheese.
Whole milk mozzarella block (1 pound): The star ingredient! Opt for a block of mozzarella for better flavor and meltiness. String cheese works as a convenient substitute.
Vegetable oil (as needed): Perfect for deep-frying. Neutral oils like canola can also work.
Marinara sauce (for dipping): The perfect pairing for these crispy sticks.

Note: This recipe makes about 15 mozzarella sticks, depending on how thickly you slice the cheese.

Variations

Looking to switch things up? Here are some twists you can try:

Dairy-Free: Use a vegan mozzarella alternative and substitute regular eggs with flax or chia “eggs.”
Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick of heat.
Extra Cheesy: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb coating for a sharper taste.
Gluten-Free: Substitute panko crumbs and flour with gluten-free alternatives.
Herb Explosion: Add more fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic experience.

For another sticky and flavorful dish, check out this sticky spicy BBQ chicken recipe that’s sure to impress.

Cooking Time

Planning your time in the kitchen is crucial! Here’s the breakdown:

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 3 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 28 minutes

Equipment You Need

To make this recipe smooth and efficient, gather these tools:

Mixing bowls: Perfect for combining breadcrumbs, flour, and eggs.
Rolling pin or mallet: To crush the panko crumbs for an even texture.
Medium-sized saucepan: Ideal for frying the mozzarella sticks.
Thermometer: Ensures your frying oil stays at the right temperature.
Cooling rack on a baking sheet: Keeps the coated cheese sticks organized and ready for chilling.

How to Make Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Recipe?

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting your mozzarella block into uniform sticks. Aim for a size that’s easy to handle, around the length of your finger. If you’re using string cheese, you’re good to skip this step.

Next, prepare three shallow bowls for your dredging process. Fill one with flour, the second with whisked eggs, and the third with your crushed panko crumbs mixed with Italian seasoning, parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Make sure everything is within reach for assembly.

Coat the Mozzarella Sticks

One by one, take each piece of mozzarella and coat it in flour, ensuring all sides are covered. Shake off any excess, then dip it into the egg mixture. Finally, roll it in the seasoned panko crumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick. Repeat this process for double coating, which helps create a thicker barrier that keeps the cheese intact during frying.

Freeze the Sticks

Once all your mozzarella sticks are breaded, place them on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet. Pop this setup into the freezer for at least one hour. Freezing is crucial to prevent the cheese from oozing out during frying.

Fry the Sticks

Heat your vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, using a thermometer to monitor the temperature. Bring the oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry two sticks at a time for about one minute, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat until all sticks are fried.

Pro Tip: Maintain the oil temperature between batches to avoid greasy sticks.

Credit: sugarspunrun

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

From my experience, these tips make a noticeable difference:

Don’t Skip the Freezing: It’s tempting to rush, but this step prevents the cheese from escaping while frying.
Double Dredge for Maximum Crunch: Repeating the flour, egg, and breadcrumb process ensures a thick, crispy crust.
Watch Your Oil Temperature: Too hot, and the breadcrumbs burn; too cold, and the sticks absorb too much oil.
Use Fresh Marinara Sauce: A homemade dipping sauce elevates the entire experience.
Experiment with Additives: Mixing Parmesan, chili flakes, or paprika into the coating adds new dimensions of flavor.

How to Serve Mozzarella Sticks?

Mozzarella sticks are best served warm, right after frying. Arrange them neatly on a platter with a small bowl of marinara sauce or ranch dressing in the center for dipping. Garnish the plate with some fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for a professional touch. For an extra indulgence, sprinkle the sticks with a pinch of coarse salt while they’re still hot. For those who love a spicy kick, you might enjoy this spicy jalapeno chicken recipe as well.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional value per stick:

Calories: 138
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 8g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storage: Freeze the uncooked mozzarella sticks in an airtight container for up to two months.
Reheating: Reheat fried or baked sticks in an oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer.
Freezing: Place breaded sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for an hour before transferring them to a container.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This mozzarella sticks recipe is bound to become a favorite for several reasons:

Simple to Make: With just a few common ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
Customizable: Adjust the flavors, ingredients, and even cooking method to suit your preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: They’re always a hit at parties, family dinners, or as a snack.
Versatile Cooking Options: Whether frying, baking, or air-frying, the results are incredible.
Perfectly Crispy and Cheesy: The crunch of the coating paired with gooey, melted cheese is unbeatable.

Dive into the kitchen and give these homemade mozzarella sticks a try. You might never look at store-bought ones the same way again! You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.

Ash Tyrrell