🧀 Introduction
There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a crunchy, golden crust and being met with a stretch of warm, melted mozzarella. Mozzarella cheese sticks are a classic comfort food — easy to make, and even easier to devour. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family snack, or just treating yourself, this recipe ensures maximum crispiness and that signature cheese pull every single time.
Pro tip: Freeze them before frying — this keeps the cheese from oozing out too soon!
📝 Ingredients
For the cheese sticks:
- 12 sticks of mozzarella string cheese (or a block cut into ½-inch thick sticks)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (or plain + 1 tsp Italian seasoning)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but delicious!)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil for frying (canola or sunflower also work)
For serving:
- Marinara or pizza sauce (warmed)
🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Cheese
Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and cut them in half if you want shorter pieces. Place them in the freezer for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight). This is essential to keep them from melting too quickly while frying.
2. Set Up Breading Stations
- In the first bowl: Add flour.
- In the second bowl: Beat the eggs with milk.
- In the third bowl: Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread the Cheese Sticks
Take each frozen cheese stick and follow this breading process:
- Dredge in flour, tapping off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture.
- Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to coat well.
- For extra crunch: Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
Place breaded sticks on a tray and freeze again for 30 minutes before frying.
4. Fry the Cheese Sticks
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry 3–4 sticks at a time for about 1 to 2 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on paper towels to drain.
5. Serve Immediately
Serve hot with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the cheese pull!
🔄 Method Tips & Variations
- Air Fryer Option: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray sticks with oil and air-fry for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Baking Option: Bake in a 400°F oven for 10–12 minutes on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Spray lightly with oil for crispiness.
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
- Herb Boost: Add dried oregano, basil, or thyme for more herby flavor.
✅ Final Notes
These mozzarella cheese sticks are crunchy on the outside, melty on the inside, and dangerously addictive. Don’t skip the freezing steps — they’re the key to cheese stick success. Whether you’re hosting guests or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.