Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Texture: Achieve the ideal balance of a crunchy exterior and a melty interior.
Customizable: Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Options for frying, baking, or air frying to suit your kitchen setup.
Freezer-Friendly: Prepare in advance and store for later

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb whole milk mozzarella block (or 12 oz string cheese)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (e.g., basil, oregano)
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
Marinara sauce for

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

directions

Prepare the Cheese: Cut the mozzarella block into 3-inch by ¾-inch sticks. If using string cheese, cut each piece in half.
Set Up Breading Stations:
- Flour Station: Place flour in a shallow dish.
- Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Breadcrumb Mixture: Combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper in another shallow dish.
Bread the Cheese: Dip each cheese stick into the flour, coating evenly. Then, dip into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Double Coat for Extra Crunch: For a thicker crust, repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb coating process.
Freeze: Place the breaded cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 1 hour. This step helps prevent the cheese from melting out during cooking.
Cook the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Frying: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 365°F (185°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer and air fry for 7–9 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
Serve: Serve the mozzarella sticks hot with marinara sauce for

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 24 mozzarella sticks
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 2–3 minutes (frying), 10–12 minutes (baking), 7–9 minutes (air frying)
Freezing time: 1 hour
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 30

variations

Spicy Mozzarella Sticks: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Herbed Mozzarella Sticks: Incorporate fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley into the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
Cheese Blend: Mix mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different taste.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Vegan Version: Substitute mozzarella with plant-based cheese and use a flaxseed mixture as an egg replacement.

storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked, breaded mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat refrigerated mozzarella sticks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, or until heated through. For frozen sticks, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use string cheese instead of a block of mozzarella?

Yes, string cheese can be used. Simply cut each piece in half to achieve the desired

Why is freezing the mozzarella sticks important?

Freezing helps the breading adhere better and prevents the cheese from melting out during

Can I bake the mozzarella sticks instead of frying them?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Ensure the cheese sticks are well-coated with the breadcrumb mixture and freeze them before

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks. Cook them directly from frozen when ready to serve.

What dipping sauces pair well with mozzarella sticks?

Marinara sauce is classic, but ranch dressing, garlic butter, or spicy aioli also make excellent dips.

Can I air fry mozzarella sticks?

Yes, air frying is a great option. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and cook for 7–9 minutes until

How do I store leftover mozzarella sticks?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer before serving.

Can I freeze cooked mozzarella sticks?

It’s best to freeze uncooked, breaded mozzarella sticks. Cooked sticks can be frozen but may lose their crispiness upon reheating.

Are there any vegan alternatives?

Yes, use plant-based cheese and substitute eggs with a flaxseed mixture or other egg replacers.

Conclusion

Homemade mozzarella sticks are a delightful treat that combines crispy breading with gooey cheese. Whether you choose to fry, bake, or air fry them, these sticks are sure to be a hit at any gathering. With the option to prepare them ahead of time and freeze, they’re both convenient and delicious. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce for the ultimate snack experience.