Crispy Mozzarella Sticks

ByMariaEline

These Crispy Mozzarella Sticks are golden and crunchy on the outside, with a warm, stretchy, cheesy center. They make an easy appetizer or party snack and are especially delicious served with marinara sauce.

Ingredients

For the mozzarella sticks:

  • 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
  • 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1½ cups (150 g) Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For serving:

  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • Fresh parsley, optional

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cheese: Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. Set up the coating: Place the flour in one shallow bowl. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Coat the mozzarella: Dip each mozzarella stick into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally the seasoned breadcrumbs. For extra-crispy sticks, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating a second time.
  4. Freeze: Arrange the coated mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 1–2 hours. This helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
  5. Heat the oil: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or saucepan. Heat to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Fry: Carefully place a few frozen mozzarella sticks into the hot oil. Fry for about 1–2 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Drain: Transfer the mozzarella sticks to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.
  8. Serve: Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Mozzarella Sticks

  • Don’t skip freezing: This is the key to keeping the cheese inside while the coating becomes crispy.
  • Double coating is worth it: A second breadcrumb layer creates a thicker, crunchier crust.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in small batches so the oil stays hot.
  • Serve immediately: They’re at their best when hot and freshly fried.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Freezing Time: 1–2 hours
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 280 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil absorbed.