Go Back
+ servings
A plate of crispy mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce, arranged neatly against a light neutral background.

Crispy Mozzarella Sticks

These homemade mozzarella sticks are golden, crunchy on the outside, and ooey-gooey on the inside. A perfect appetizer for any occasion!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Shallow Bowls
  • Deep Frying Pan
  • Freezer-safe tray
  • Tongs
  • Paper Towels

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 12 pieces mozzarella sticks (string cheese), cut in half
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Optional Ingredients

  • ice cubes optional, to make the coating extra crunchy

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the mozzarella sticks by cutting them in half. Place the cheese sticks on a tray and freeze them for 30 minutes to ensure they stay solid during cooking.
  • Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Italian-style breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  • Coat each mozzarella stick in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat for all the sticks.
  • Freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks for an additional 15–20 minutes to ensure the coating stays intact during cooking.
  • Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the frozen sticks into the hot oil and fry for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  • Remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
  • Serve immediately with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

For a healthier alternative, try baking the mozzarella sticks at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes until golden brown. You can also use an air fryer for a crispy, less oily version.

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 16gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 8IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 1.5mg
Keyword Appetizer, Cheese, Fried, Mozzarella Sticks, Snack
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!