Go Back
When it comes to comfort foods, few treats can compete with the allure of homemade mozzarella sticks. Picture this: a crisp, golden-brown exterior that gives way to a delightful stretch of melty, gooey cheese with every bite. Whether you're planning a cozy night in, hosting a casual gathering, or simply indulging in a late-night snack, these mozzarella sticks are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Their irresistible combination of textures and flavors makes them a favorite appetizer or snack for many, and while you can certainly find them on the menus of countless restaurants, nothing compares to the joy of making them from scratch in your very own kitchen.

The Crispiest Homemade Mozzarella Sticks – Ooey Gooey Perfection!

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with homemade mozzarella sticks that boast a perfectly crispy exterior and ooey-gooey cheese center. This recipe guides you through the process of crafting delicious mozzarella sticks from scratch, allowing you to customize flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you're hosting friends, enjoying a casual night in, or treating yourself to a late-night snack, these mozzarella sticks are sure to impress everyone with their irresistible appeal. Get ready to create a crowd-pleaser that'll have everyone coming back for more!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 ounces of part-skim mozzarella cheese (string cheese or blocks cut into sticks)

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon water

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon paprika

A pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Marinara sauce (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Cheese: If using block mozzarella, cut the cheese into sticks approximately 3-4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. If using string cheese, simply unpeel and leave them whole. Place the cheese sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes, or until slightly firm. This helps them hold their shape during frying.

    Set Up Breading Station: In three separate shallow bowls, set up your breading station:

      - In the first bowl, add the flour and season with salt and pepper.

        - In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until well combined.

          - In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

            Bread the Cheese: Remove the cheese sticks from the freezer. First, coat each cheese stick in the flour, ensuring it’s evenly covered and shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat this process for all cheese sticks, then place them back in the freezer for another 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial for extra crunch!

              Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of breading into it; if it sizzles right away, it's ready.

                Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Carefully add the breaded mozzarella sticks to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn them as needed.

                  Drain: Once they are golden and crispy, remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

                    Serve: Serve the mozzarella sticks hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness!

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6