Go Back
How to Make Mozzarella Sticks

How to Make Mozzarella Sticks

Homemade Mozzarella Sticks are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and packed with melty mozzarella cheese in every bite. This easy appetizer is perfect for game days, parties, movie nights, or anytime you're craving a cheesy snack with marinara sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Freezing Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American, italian-american
Servings 4 people
Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

  • Three shallow bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Cooking thermometer
  • Metal tongs or slotted spoon
  • Paper towel-lined plate
  • Wire cooling rack, optional

Ingredients
  

For the Mozzarella Sticks

  • 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Frying

  • 4 to 6 cups vegetable canola, or peanut oil

For Serving

  • 1 cup warm marinara sauce
  • Chopped fresh parsley optional
  • Extra grated Parmesan optional
  • Ranch dressing optional

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the breading station

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Place the flour in the first shallow bowl.
  • In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
  • In the third bowl, combine the Italian breadcrumbs, panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.

Step 2: Coat the mozzarella

  • Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and pat them dry with paper towels.
  • Working with one piece at a time, coat the cheese lightly in flour and shake off the excess.
  • Dip it into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs gently onto every side, including both ends.

Step 3: Apply a second coating

  • Dip the breaded mozzarella stick back into the egg mixture.
  • Roll it in the breadcrumbs a second time, pressing firmly enough to create an even coating.
  • Check the ends carefully. Any exposed cheese can melt through the coating during frying.
  • Place each finished stick on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Freeze the mozzarella sticks

  • Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 1 hour.
  • The cheese should feel completely firm before frying.
  • Do not skip this step. Freezing slows down the melting process and gives the breading enough time to become crisp and golden.

Step 5: Heat the oil

  • Pour about 2 to 3 inches of oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pot.
  • Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F.
  • Use a cooking thermometer to monitor the temperature. Oil that is too cool can make the coating greasy, while overly hot oil may burn the crumbs before the cheese warms.

Step 6: Fry in small batches

  • Remove only a few mozzarella sticks from the freezer at a time.
  • Carefully lower 3 or 4 sticks into the hot oil. Fry for 60 to 90 seconds, turning once if needed, until the coating is evenly golden.
  • Remove them immediately if you notice cheese beginning to escape.
  • Let the oil return to 350°F before adding the next batch.

Step 7: Drain and serve

  • Transfer the fried mozzarella sticks to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
  • Let them cool for 2 to 3 minutes because the cheese inside will be very hot.
  • Sprinkle with parsley or Parmesan if desired, then serve warm with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or another favorite dip.
Keyword How to Make Mozzarella Sticks