
Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks
Golden, crunchy mozzarella sticks with a gooey cheese center, perfect for snacking.
15 mins
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
4
Servings
Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Nutrition Facts
Instructions
Cut each mozzarella string cheese stick in half to make 24 pieces. Place them on a tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Set up a breading station: Place flour in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, whisk eggs and water. In a third bowl, mix both breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Coat each cheese stick: First roll in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in egg wash, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumb mixture. Place on a plate.
Freeze again: Place breaded mozzarella sticks on a tray and freeze for another 15 minutes to help coating adhere.
Heat oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep pan until it's about 2 inches deep. Heat to 375°F (190°C) over medium heat.
Fry in batches: Carefully add 4-5 mozzarella sticks at a time. Fry for about 30-45 seconds until golden brown, turning once. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping while cheese is still melted inside.
Chef's Tips
- Freezing Tip: Double freezing (before and after breading) prevents cheese from leaking out during frying.
- Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain 375°F - too hot burns coating, too cool makes sticks greasy.
- Baking Option: For healthier version, bake at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Coating Variations: Add grated parmesan to breadcrumbs or use crushed cornflakes for extra crunch.
- Make Ahead: Can bread sticks and freeze up to a month before frying.
- Serving Tip: Let sit 1-2 minutes after frying - cheese will be molten hot.