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These homemade mozzarella sticks are better than anything in the freezer aisle. They’re crispier, cheesier, and way more flavorful… and yes, they’re totally worth the prep. We’re using real mozzarella, not string cheese, and double dipping that coating for an extra thick, golden crust.
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Helpful tips + Faqs
Freeze before frying
Always freeze your mozzarella sticks before frying. Freezing helps the cheese hold its shape and prevents it from oozing out while frying. It’s a game changer.
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You can also make the mozzarella sticks and freeze after frying. To reheat the mozzarella sticks just pop them in the air fryer or oven when ready. Pop them in an air fryer or toaster oven at 375°F for about 7-10 minutes from frozen. If just reheating, not frozen, reheat for a few minutes. Don’t microwave, they’ll turn soggy.
Make the breading
When making the breading, take your time and use three separate bowls. This is the most tedious part of the recipe but it’s so worth it to do it correctly so the sticks hold shape. A proper breading also helps keep the cheese from oozing out of the cheese sticks too much.
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil.
You can absolutely use string cheese to make mozzarella sticks. A fresh mozzarella block gives you that creamy, gooey pull that’s worth the extra effort.
Homemade Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup parmigiana reggiano , shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
- 16 oz block mozzarella cheese
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup flour
- Vegetable oil , canola or peanut oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl combine the breadcrumbs, shredded cheese, salt and garlic powder.
- Cut the mozzarella into about 1/2 inch thick slices. This should make about 10 slices.
- In a bowl whisk together the eggs. Add the flour to a separate bowl.
- Dip the cheese sticks one at a time into the flour then the egg mix, shake off any excess, then dip into the breadcrumbs, back into the egg and back into the breadcrumbs. Do this with all pieces until you are finished.
- On a baking sheet or plate, place the mozzarella sticks and freeze for two hours. This makes sure they hold shape well when frying. If you are pressed for time, 40 minutes in the freezer should be fine.
- Heat the oil in a skillet. The oil should be about 1/4 inch deep. Fry the mozzarella sticks until golden brown, flipping once, on medium heat. This should take a few minutes. Do it in batches if needed so you don’t crowd the pan.
- Let cool on a cooling rack for a little bit. Serve with some warm marinara sauce.
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Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Key Ingredients
- Italian Breadcrumbs – They bring the herby, garlicky flavor and crispy texture we want on the outside.
- Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty depth and makes the crust extra rich.
- Garlic Powder – Boosts the savoriness and makes the coating taste even better.
- Salt – Just a pinch to wake up all the flavors in the coating.
- Mozzarella Cheese Block – This melts smoother and cheesier than string cheese, cut it into thick slices for max pull.
- Eggs – Help the breadcrumbs stick and give that crispy outer shell structure.
- Vegetable, Canola, or Peanut Oil – You need an oil with a high smoke point for shallow frying.
