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Mozzarella sticks have carved out a beloved niche in the world of appetizers and snacks. Their golden, crispy exterior paired with the gooey, melted interior makes them a crowd-pleaser at parties, game days, and family gatherings. The appeal of mozzarella sticks lies not only in their delicious flavor but also in the delightful texture that comes from the perfect frying technique. While you can certainly grab a frozen box from the grocery store, nothing compares to the satisfaction of biting into a homemade mozzarella stick, crafted with care and the freshest ingredients.

Crispy Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Indulge in the ultimate comfort snack with homemade crispy mozzarella sticks! This easy recipe showcases all the secrets to achieving the perfect golden crust and gooey interior, highlighting the importance of quality ingredients. From fresh mozzarella and flavorful seasonings to a meticulous three-step coating process, you’ll learn everything you need to create these delicious treats. Perfect for parties or home cravings, making these mozzarella sticks is satisfying and fun. Get ready to impress family and friends with your cooking skills!

Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into ½-inch sticks

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

Salt and pepper to taste

Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

Marinara sauce, for dipping (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prep the Cheese: Start by cutting the fresh mozzarella into ½-inch sticks. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispy texture.

    Set Up Your Dredging Station: In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour in the first bowl. In the second bowl, beat the two large eggs together until smooth. In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.

      Coat the Cheese Sticks: First, dip each mozzarella stick into the flour, ensuring it's evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, roll the cheese stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs. Repeat with all the sticks.

        Chill the Coated Sticks: Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for preventing the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.

          Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it bubbles and browns quickly, it’s ready.

            Fry the Cheese Sticks: Carefully add a few mozzarella sticks to the hot oil at a time, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

              Serve: Arrange the crispy mozzarella sticks on a serving platter, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  15 minutes | 1 hour (includes freezing) | Makes 12 sticks