Introduction

Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, homemade mozzarella sticks are a beloved snack perfect for sharing. This recipe shows you how to create golden, flavorful sticks that melt delightfully with every bite.

Crispy Mozzarella Sticks Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

Low moisture mozzarella, cut into sticks
Flour
Salt
Water
Panko breadcrumbs
Dried oregano
Dried basil
Chili flakes (optional)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Black pepper
Oil for frying

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the low moisture mozzarella into evenly sized sticks, about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.
Step 2: Prepare a flour paste by mixing flour, salt, and water until you get a thick batter.
Step 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs with dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and chili flakes if using.
Step 4: Dip each mozzarella stick into the flour paste, then coat it with the seasoned panko mixture. Repeat the dipping and coating to create a double layer.
Step 5: Place the coated sticks on a tray and freeze them for at least 2 hours to help the coating adhere and prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
Step 6: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the frozen mozzarella sticks in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 7: Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

Use low moisture mozzarella for the best texture and minimal leakage during frying.
For an extra crispy coating, add grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture.
Try adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs for a spicy twist.
Make sure the sticks are well frozen before frying to keep the cheese inside from oozing out.

Storage

Store any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake mozzarella sticks instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes. However, frying will yield a crispier texture.

What type of oil is best for frying mozzarella sticks?

Use oils with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for frying to ensure the coating crisps nicely without burning.

Crispy Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 60 reviews

Crispy and gooey Mozzarella Sticks perfect as a snack or appetizer. These golden fried sticks feature low moisture mozzarella cheese coated in a seasoned flour and panko breadcrumb crust, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Author: Maya
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 12 mozzarella sticks 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese

12 oz low moisture mozzarella, cut into sticks

Flour Paste

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup cold water

Breading

2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Frying

Vegetable oil, enough for deep frying

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Sticks: Cut the low moisture mozzarella into uniform sticks about 3 to 4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick for even cooking and easy frying.
Make the Flour Paste: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cold water to create a smooth batter without lumps. This paste will help the breading adhere to the cheese.
Season the Panko Breadcrumbs: Combine panko, dried oregano, dried basil, chili flakes (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a shallow dish. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
Coat the Cheese Sticks: Dip each mozzarella stick first into the flour paste, ensuring it is fully covered, then coat thoroughly with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. For extra crunch and secure coating, repeat the dipping in flour paste and panko breadcrumbs a second time.
Freeze the Sticks: Arrange the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for at least 1 hour. This step prevents the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to completely submerge the sticks for even frying.
Deep Fry: Carefully add the frozen mozzarella sticks to the hot oil in batches, frying for 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pot.
Drain and Serve: Remove the fried mozzarella sticks with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Freezing is essential to prevent the cheese from oozing out during frying.
Use low moisture mozzarella for better texture and less melting.
Double coating ensures a thick, crispy crust.
Adjust seasoning in panko breadcrumbs to taste or omit chili flakes for less heat.
Serve hot for best flavor and texture.

Keywords: Mozzarella sticks, fried cheese sticks, appetizer, snack, crispy mozzarella, panko coating