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Homemade mozzarella sticks fried to golden perfection with gooey melted cheese inside

Crispy Fried Mozzarella Sticks

This crispy fried mozzarella sticks recipe delivers the perfect crunchy exterior with gooey cheese inside, making it an addictive snack for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cheese and Coating
  • 8 pieces String cheese or mozzarella cut into sticks Use low moisture cheese for best results.
  • 1 cup All purpose flour For the first coating.
  • 2 large Eggs Beaten well for coating.
  • 1 cup Bread crumbs Italian style or panko for extra crunch.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Optional but recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder Optional but recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Optional for seasoning.
Frying
  • 2 inches Oil for frying Vegetable or canola oil.
  • 1 cup Marinara sauce For dipping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Prep the cheese: unwrap string cheese or cut block mozzarella into sticks about the size of your finger.
  2. Set up your breading line: bowl 1 with flour mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper, bowl 2 with beaten eggs, and bowl 3 with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano.
Breading and Freezing
  1. Coat each cheese stick in flour, dip in egg, then cover in breadcrumbs. Repeat with a second layer of egg and breadcrumbs.
  2. Place the breaded sticks on a parchment lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 to 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Frying
  1. Heat oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot to around 350°F.
  2. Fry the mozzarella sticks in small batches, cooking for 45 to 75 seconds or until golden brown, turning gently.
  3. Remove fried sticks and drain on paper towels or a rack.
  4. Serve hot with marinara sauce.

Notes

Ensure sticks are well-coated and frozen adequately to avoid cheese blowout during frying. Keep fried sticks warm in a low oven if needed while finishing up the batches.