You’re in the right place if you’ve ever craved those golden, gooey cheese sticks from your favourite restaurant. Here’s a foolproof recipe for homemade mozzarella cheese sticks that are crispy, melty on the inside, and irresistible.
With easy-to-find ingredients and a few key steps, you’ll have a delicious appetizer that’s perfect for game days, parties, or a cosy movie night at home. If using a block of Cheese Sticks, slice it into uniform sticks about 3–4 inches long and ½ inch thick. Place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Freeze for 30–60 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring the cheese doesn’t melt too quickly during frying, helping each stick keep its shape. Set Up Your Breading Station: Bowl 1 – Flour: Pour 1 cup of flour into a shallow dish. The flour creates a dry layer that helps the egg stick better.
Bowl 2 – Egg Mixture: In a second shallow dish, whisk together 2 large eggs with 3 tablespoons of milk until fully combined and smooth. Bowl 3 – Breadcrumbs: In a third dish, combine 1 ½ cups of breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture adds crunch and flavour to each bite. Take each frozen mozzarella stick and coat it in flour, making sure it’s completely covered.
Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured stick into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip off. Transfer the stick to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to coat all sides evenly. For an extra crunchy layer, repeat the egg dip and breadcrumb coating.
This double-coating technique not only adds texture but also keeps the cheese sealed in, preventing leaks. Place the breaded sticks back on the baking sheet and freeze for another 30–60 minutes. This second freeze solidifies the coating, helping it hold up during frying and ensuring each stick comes out golden and crispy without melting.
In a deep, heavy-bottomed frying pan or deep fryer, add enough vegetable oil to reach about 1–2 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Using a thermometer ensures the oil is just right for frying – too hot, and the coating might burn; too cool, and the cheese might melt too soon.
Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Fry in Small Batches: Carefully add 3–4 cheese sticks at a time into the hot oil, ensuring that the pan is. Fry each for 1–2 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Drain on Paper Towels: Use a slotted spoon to remove each stick and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Mozzarella sticks are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer while the cheese is hot and stretchy. Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
Expert Tips for the Best Homemade Cheese Sticks;
Freezing is Key: Always freeze the cheese sticks before frying to ensure they stay intact and don’t melt too quickly in the oil.
Double Coat for Extra Crunch: The second coating not only adds crunch but also acts as a barrier, keeping the cheese inside.
Use the Right Oil Temperature: A steady 350°F (175°C) is ideal. Too low, and the coating absorbs too much oil; too high, and it may burn before the cheese is fully melted inside.
Breadcrumb Options: Panko breadcrumbs provide a crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs, but you can mix both for an interesting texture variation.
This homemade recipe is easy to follow and packed with flavour, perfect for any gathering or simply a satisfying snack. Enjoy your cheesy masterpiece, and get ready for these to become a favourite in your recipe collection. Happy munching.
Ingredients;
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (or use a block of mozzarella cut into 3–4 inch sticks)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko is preferred for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil – For frying; choose a high-heat oil like vegetable or canola.
Dipping Sauce:
- Marinara sauce or ranch dressing – Serve warm marinara or creamy ranch to complement the crispy cheese sticks.
