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Easy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

Crispy homemade mozzarella sticks with a seasoned double breadcrumb coating and warm, melted cheese inside.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Freeze Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Neutral oil for frying
  • Marinara sauce for serving

Equipment

  • 3 shallow bowls — for flour, egg mixture, and breadcrumbs
  • Baking sheet — for arranging the breaded mozzarella sticks
  • Parchment paper — to line the baking sheet
  • Heavy pot or deep skillet — for frying
  • Cooking thermometer — to monitor the oil at 350°F (175°C)
  • Slotted spoon or spider strainer — for safely removing the mozzarella sticks
  • Wire rack or paper towel-lined plate — for draining excess oil
  • Tongs — optional, for handling the mozzarella sticks

Method
 

  1. Place the flour in one shallow bowl.
  2. Whisk the eggs and water together in a second shallow bowl.
  3. Combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs, panko, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a third shallow bowl.
  4. Lightly coat each mozzarella stick in flour and shake off the excess.
  5. Dip the mozzarella into the egg mixture and allow excess egg to drip off.
  6. Coat completely with the breadcrumb mixture.
  7. Dip the breaded mozzarella into the egg mixture a second time.
  8. Coat again with breadcrumbs, making sure the entire surface and both ends are covered.
  9. Arrange the breaded mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  10. Freeze for at least 1 hour, until firm.
  11. Heat neutral oil to 350°F (175°C).
  12. Fry the frozen mozzarella sticks in small batches until golden brown and crisp, usually about 1–2 minutes per batch.
  13. Remove with a slotted spoon or spider and drain briefly on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
  14. Serve warm with marinara sauce.

Notes

Double coating and freezing are the most important steps for helping the mozzarella sticks stay intact during frying.
Make sure the breading completely covers the cheese, especially the ends.
Fry in small batches and remove the mozzarella sticks as soon as the coating is golden and crisp.