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Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

Crispy homemade mozzarella sticks are a classic appetizer with a satisfying crunch on the outside and gooey, melted cheese on the inside. Made with simple pantry ingredients, these golden sticks are perfect for dipping in marinara sauce or enjoyed on their own as a cheesy indulgence. They’re freezer-friendly, making them ideal for prepping ahead.

Ingredients

Scale

12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons milk
2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Cut each string cheese stick in half to create 24 shorter sticks. Place them in the freezer for at least 1 hour or until fully frozen to prevent cheese from melting too quickly during frying.

Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: flour in the first, eggs beaten with milk in the second, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in the third.

Dip each frozen cheese stick into the flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. For an extra crispy layer, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps once more.

Place the breaded sticks on a tray and freeze again for 30 minutes before frying to ensure they hold their shape.

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for about 1 to 2 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Do not overcrowd the pan.

Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with marinara sauce or your favorite dip.

Notes

Double breading the sticks helps create a thick, crunchy coating that keeps the cheese from leaking during frying. These freeze well for up to a month—just fry straight from frozen. For baking, place breaded sticks on a baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway.