Fried Mozzarella Sticks

Fried Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate comfort food, combining gooey, melty cheese with a crispy, golden breadcrumb coating. These delicious bites are perfect for snacking, appetizers, or even a fun family dinner. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these cheesy delights that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and you’ve got an irresistible treat that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

Fried Mozzarella Sticks are not only incredibly tasty but also super easy to make. Whether it’s game day, a movie night, or a casual gathering, these sticks are always a hit. The recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite spices or try different dipping sauces. Plus, they take less than 30 minutes from preparation to frying! Once you taste that first crispy bite, you’ll understand why this dish becomes a staple in every home.

Ingredient Checklist

To bring these Fried Mozzarella Sticks to life, gather the following ingredients:

• 12 ounces string cheese sticks, cut in half (1 package)
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs + 3 tablespoons water, beaten
• 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
• Marinara sauce for dipping (click for recipe)

Equipment Breakdown

You will need a few essential tools to make your Fried Mozzarella Sticks:

• Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer: For frying the sticks evenly.
• Slotted spoon: To remove the sticks from the oil safely.
• Baking sheet: To hold the breaded sticks before frying.
• Three shallow dishes: For setting up your breading station.

Fried Mozzarella Sticks: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese

Start by cutting the string cheese sticks in half. This will give you the perfect-sized pieces for dipping and enjoying.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In three shallow dishes, set up your breading station. Place the flour in the first dish, the beaten eggs mixed with water in the second, and combine the Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder in the third dish.

Step 3: Bread the Cheese Sticks

Take each cheese stick piece and roll it in the flour, coating it evenly. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the cheese stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Place the breaded sticks on a baking sheet.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In your heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping in a small piece of breadcrumb; if it sizzles, it’s time to fry!

Step 5: Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

Carefully add a few breaded cheese sticks to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once all the cheese sticks are fried, serve them warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

If you or someone you know has allergies, consider these substitutes:

• Gluten-free breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free alternatives for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Egg substitute: Use flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer for an egg-free option.
• Vegan cheese: Swap the string cheese for a plant-based mozzarella alternative.

Learn from These Mistakes

Making Fried Mozzarella Sticks can be quite simple, but here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Not drying the cheese: Ensure the cheese sticks are dry before breading to help the coating stick.
• Overcrowding the pot: Fry in small batches so that the oil temperature remains consistent.
• Skipping the chilling step: For extra crispy sticks, consider chilling the breaded sticks in the fridge for about 30 minutes before frying.

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you want to prep your Fried Mozzarella Sticks in advance, here’s how:

You can bread the cheese sticks a few hours ahead and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry. For longer storage, freeze the breaded sticks on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be fried directly from the freezer—just add a minute or two to the cooking time. Enjoy them fresh and hot whenever the craving strikes!

Ask the Chef

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While string cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor. Just ensure they are firm enough to hold their shape during frying.

What if my cheese sticks leak while frying?

If your cheese is leaking out, it could be due to the oil being too hot or not breading the sticks thoroughly. Make sure your oil is at the right temperature and that you have a good coating of breadcrumbs.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! For a healthier alternative, you can bake the breaded cheese sticks in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

How do I ensure they stay crispy?

To keep your Fried Mozzarella Sticks crispy, avoid stacking them on top of each other after frying. Serve immediately, and if they need to wait, place them in a single layer on a wire rack to allow air circulation.

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you’re looking for other quick and satisfying recipes to make during busy weeknights, check out these:

• Cheesy Meatball Ziti – A comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for the whole family.
• Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole – Great for breakfast or brunch, packed with flavor and cheese.

In Closing

Fried Mozzarella Sticks are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. With their crispy exterior and ooey-gooey center, they make for an irresistible snack that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer or as part of a meal, these sticks are sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and dive into a delicious world of cheesy goodness!

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