Crispy and Delicious Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups Italian-style dried breadcrumbs
1 1/3 cups freshly grated Parmesan
1 teaspoon salt
2 (16-ounce) blocks pasteurized mozzarella cut into 4 by 1/2-inch sticks
4 large eggs, beaten to blend
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
2 cups marinara sauce, heated

Steps and instructions

Stir the bread crumbs, 1 cup of Parmesan and 1 teaspoon of salt in a medium bowl to blend.
Dip the cheese in the eggs to coat completely and allow the excess egg to drip back into the bowl.
Coat the cheese in the bread crumb mixture, patting to adhere and coat completely.
Place the cheese sticks on a baking sheet.
Repeat dipping the cheese sticks in the egg and bread crumb mixture to coat a second time.
Cover and freeze until frozen, about 2 hours and up to 2 days.
Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
Working in batches, fry the cheese until golden brown, about 1 minute per side.
Transfer the fried cheese to plates.
Sprinkle with the remaining cheese and serve with the Marinara Sauce.

Tools for making

Baking sheet - Used to place the cheese sticks before freezing them.
Medium bowl - Used to mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and salt.
Frying pan - Used to heat the oil and fry the mozzarella sticks.
Spatula - Used to flip the mozzarella sticks while frying.
Plates - Used to serve the fried mozzarella sticks.

Recipe variations

Use panko breadcrumbs instead of Italian-style breadcrumbs for a lighter and crunchier crust.
Add some dried herbs like oregano, basil, or garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture for additional flavor.
Try using different types of cheese such as cheddar, Colby Jack, or pepper jack for a twist on the classic mozzarella sticks.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
Make a spicy version by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture or mixing it into the breadcrumb mixture.
For a healthier option, bake the mozzarella sticks in the oven instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Experiment with different dipping sauces like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or chipotle mayo.
Create a meat-free alternative by using firm tofu or halloumi cheese instead of mozzarella.

Recipe overview

Love cheese? Then you're going to love this homemade Mozzarella Sticks recipe. Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, these Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect appetizer for your next gathering. Made with Italian-style breadcrumbs and freshly grated Parmesan, these sticks are full of flavor and have a satisfying crunch. Paired with a warm marinara sauce for dipping, they're a hit everyone will rave over. Plus, they can be made ahead and frozen, making them a convenient option for parties. Ready in around 2 hours, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!

Common questions

Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of pasteurized mozzarella? Yes, you can use fresh mozzarella instead of pasteurized mozzarella for this recipe.
Can I bake the mozzarella sticks instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the mozzarella sticks instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Can I use a different type of sauce instead of marinara? Yes, you can use a different type of sauce if you prefer. Some popular alternatives to marinara sauce for dipping mozzarella sticks include ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or chipotle mayo.
Can I make these mozzarella sticks in advance? Yes, you can prepare the mozzarella sticks in advance and freeze them until ready to fry or bake. Just make sure to place them in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead? Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer or have dietary restrictions. Ensure that the breadcrumbs are labeled as gluten-free to avoid any potential issues.

Serving dishes and utensils

Baking sheet - Used to place and bake the coated cheese sticks in the oven.
Large frying pan - Used to fry the cheese sticks in oil until golden brown.
Spatula - Used to flip and transfer the fried cheese sticks.
Plates - Used to serve the fried mozzarella sticks.
Grater - Used to grate the Parmesan cheese.
Bowl - Used to mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and salt together.
Whisk - Used to beat the eggs for coating the cheese sticks.
Freezer - Used to freeze the coated cheese sticks until firm.
Serving dish - Used to serve the mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce.

Origin stories

Despite its popularity in America, particularly as a bar food, the origins of the mozzarella stick are a bit of a mystery. Some food historians suggest that it might have evolved from the Italian tradition of frying cheese, while others link it to the American tradition of deep-fried foods. What's not disputed, however, is its universal appeal. The combination of crunchy exterior and gooey, melted cheese interior has made it a favorite in not just the United States, but around the world. Whether served as an appetizer, a snack, or a side, the mozzarella stick has firmly established itself in the pantheon of comfort foods.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.