Appetizers & Starters > Cheese-Based Starters > Fried Cheese Appetizers > Mozzarella Sticks

Classic Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside – these homemade mozzarella sticks are a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any occasion. This recipe delivers perfectly golden and cheesy sticks every time.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
3-5 minutes
Servings
6
Ingredients
  • 12 Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 Eggs
  • 1 cup Italian Breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 2 cups Vegetable Oil

Preparing the Mozzarella Sticks

Begin by cutting the mozzarella cheese into sticks if they aren't pre-cut. Make sure they are roughly the same size for even cooking. Place the mozzarella sticks on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This will help them hold their shape during frying.

Setting up the Breading Station

Set up three shallow dishes for the breading process. In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, whisk the eggs. In the third dish, combine the Italian breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Breading the Mozzarella Sticks

Take the frozen mozzarella sticks and dredge them first in the flour, ensuring they are fully coated. Then, dip them in the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat them thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere. For best results and minimal cheese leakage, double bread the sticks: repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for each stick.

Frying the Mozzarella Sticks

Pour the vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded mozzarella sticks to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcook them, as the cheese will melt out quickly.

Serving

Remove the fried mozzarella sticks with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or any dipping sauce of your choice.

← Classic Cheese Soufflé Crispy Cheddar Bites →

FAQ

  • Can I bake these mozzarella sticks instead of frying?

    Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown, flipping halfway through. They won't be as crispy as fried, but they are a healthier alternative.
  • Can I prepare these ahead of time?

    Yes, you can prepare the breaded mozzarella sticks ahead of time and freeze them. Place the breaded sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for at least 1 hour, or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to fry or bake, cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  • What is the best oil for frying mozzarella sticks?

    Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all good choices for frying mozzarella sticks. They have a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, which won't interfere with the taste of the cheese.