📝 Introduction
Mozzarella cheese sticks are a universally loved snack—gooey, stretchy cheese wrapped in a crispy, golden coating. Whether you’re entertaining guests, feeding kids, or just craving a satisfying bite, this homemade version is miles better than the frozen kind. With simple ingredients and a few tips, you’ll have perfectly cheesy, crunchy sticks that vanish in minutes. Serve with warm marinara sauce, and you’ve got the ultimate comfort food.
🧂 Ingredients
For the Cheese Sticks:
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks (or a block of mozzarella, cut into 3-inch sticks)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (or Panko for extra crunch)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for deep frying
For Serving:
- Warm marinara sauce or ranch dressing
🍳 Instructions & Method
🔪 Step 1: Prep the Cheese
- Unwrap string cheese or cut block mozzarella into 3-inch sticks.
- Place them on a tray and freeze for at least 1 hour. This prevents the cheese from melting too quickly while frying.
🍳 Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations
- In one bowl, place the flour.
- In a second bowl, beat the eggs with the milk.
- In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and Parmesan.
🧤 Step 3: Bread the Cheese Sticks
- Dredge each frozen cheese stick in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, coating well.
- Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- For an extra crispy crust, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps once more (double coating!).
❄️ Step 4: Freeze Again
- Place breaded sticks back into the freezer for 30 minutes. This ensures they stay intact when frying.
🍳 Step 5: Fry the Cheese Sticks
- In a deep pot or skillet, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry 3–4 sticks at a time for about 1–2 minutes, turning to ensure even browning. They should be golden and crisp.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
🍅 Step 6: Serve
- Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce or your favorite dip.
🔁 Baking or Air Fryer Option (Healthier Alternative)
Air Fryer:
- Preheat to 390°F (200°C).
- Spray sticks with cooking spray and air fry for 6–8 minutes until golden.
Oven:
- Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
- Place sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment, spray with oil, and bake for 8–10 minutes.
👨🍳 Tips & Tricks
- Freeze well: Skipping the freezing step leads to melted cheese leaks!
- Double breading = Extra crunch and less cheese escape.
- Use Panko for a crunchier texture than traditional breadcrumbs.
- Mix in crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little kick.