Description

Crispy, golden, and oozing with melted cheese, these Easy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect appetizer or snack. Serve with marinara sauce for a classic pairing!

Ingredients

Scale

12 mozzarella cheese sticks
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
2 tbsp milk
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese

Cut mozzarella sticks in half for smaller portions, if desired.
Place them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to prevent melting while frying.

2. Set Up the Breading Station

In one bowl, mix flour with a pinch of salt and pepper.
In another bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.
In a third bowl, combine Italian-style breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Parmesan cheese (if using).

3. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks

Dredge each frozen cheese stick in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating process.

4. Freeze Again

Place breaded mozzarella sticks back into the freezer for at least 1 hour to ensure a firm coating.

5. Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

6. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

Fry a few sticks at a time for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

7. Serve Immediately

Enjoy hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

Baked Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Air Fryer Version: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway.
Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture.
Herb-Infused: Mix dried oregano or basil into the breadcrumb coating.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Freezing Time: 1.5 hours
Cook Time: 2 minutes per batch
Category: Appetizer, Snack
Method: Frying, Baking, Air Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: homemade mozzarella sticks, crispy cheese sticks, easy appetizer, fried mozzarella, air fryer cheese sticks