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Crispy Fried Mozzarella Sticks Recipe with Gooey Cheese Center

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These homemade mozzarella sticks feature a shatteringly crisp crust and a gooey, stretchy cheese center. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a comforting snack, they come together quickly and are always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 sticks part-skim mozzarella string cheese (or fresh mozzarella, cut into 1/2-inch x 4-inch sticks)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour if needed)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • 1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (seasoned, or use panko for extra crunch)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme; optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 2–3 cups vegetable oil (canola, sunflower, or peanut oil; for deep-frying)
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Unwrap 12 mozzarella sticks or slice fresh mozzarella into sticks about 1/2-inch thick and 4 inches long. Pat dry with paper towels if using fresh cheese.
  2. Set up a breading station: place flour in one bowl; whisk together eggs and milk in a second bowl; combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and Parmesan in a third bowl.
  3. Roll each mozzarella stick in flour until fully coated. Tap off excess.
  4. Dip the floured stick into the egg-milk mixture, coating all sides. Let excess drip off.
  5. Roll the stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. For extra crunch and to seal in the cheese, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps (double coating).
  6. Arrange breaded sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight).
  7. Pour 2-3 cups vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pan and heat to 350°F (175°C).
  8. Working in batches of 3-4, carefully lower each stick into the hot oil with a slotted spoon or spider strainer. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
  9. Transfer fried sticks to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let cool for 1-2 minutes before serving.
  10. Serve hot, sprinkled with chopped parsley or basil, and with marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

Double-coating and freezing the sticks before frying is crucial to prevent cheese leakage. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature. For gluten-free or dairy-free adaptations, substitute ingredients as needed. Mozzarella sticks can be baked or air-fried for a lighter version.

Nutrition

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, fried cheese, appetizer, party snack, comfort food, gooey cheese, crispy, vegetarian, easy recipe

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