🛒 Ingredients
For the Mozzarella Sticks
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs (Italian-style recommended)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
For Frying
- Oil for deep frying (vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil)
For Dipping (Optional)
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic mayo or spicy ranch
🔥 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Cheese
Remove the wrappers from the mozzarella sticks.
Cut each stick in half if you prefer smaller portions.
Place them in the freezer for 25–30 minutes.
✔ Freezing helps the cheese hold its shape and prevents leaking during frying.
2️⃣ Set Up the Breading Station
Prepare three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: All-purpose flour
- Bowl 2: Eggs and milk, whisked together
- Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs, panko, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper (mix well)
3️⃣ Coat the Mozzarella
Working with frozen cheese sticks, coat each one in the following order:
- Flour
- Egg mixture
- Breadcrumb mixture
- Back into egg mixture
- Back into breadcrumb mixture
✔ This double coating creates a thick, crunchy crust and keeps the cheese from oozing out.
4️⃣ Freeze Again
Place the coated sticks on a tray and freeze for another 30 minutes.
This second freeze ensures maximum crispiness when frying.
5️⃣ Fry Until Golden
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully fry 4–5 mozzarella sticks at a time.
Cook for 1½–2 minutes, or until golden brown.
⚠️ Do not overcook—cheese melts quickly!
6️⃣ Serve Immediately
Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as:
- Warm marinara
- Garlic mayo
- Spicy ranch
⭐ Expert Tips for Best Results
- Always freeze before frying—this step is essential.
- Panko breadcrumbs add a restaurant-style crunch.
- Season the breadcrumb mixture well for maximum flavor.
- Add grated Parmesan to the breading for extra richness.
🍽️ Want to Try Variations?
These mozzarella sticks can also be made as:
- 🔥 Air-fried
- 🍃 Oven-baked
- 🥖 Gluten-free
- 🥓 Keto-style
- 🌶️ Spicy version
Let me know if you’d like any of these recipe
