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Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

Golden, crunchy, and filled with gooey melted cheese, these homemade mozzarella sticks are better than any restaurant version. Double-breaded for the perfect crunch.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 12 sticks
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 140

Ingredients
  

Main Components
  • 1 lb low-moisture block mozzarella cheese cut into 3x0.5 inch sticks
  • 1 quart vegetable or canola oil for frying
Breading Station
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1.5 cups Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Kitchen Thermometer
  • Spider strainer
  • Three shallow bowls

Method
 

  1. Cut the block of mozzarella cheese into sticks approximately 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.
  2. Set up a breading station with three bowls. Bowl 1: Flour, cornstarch, and salt. Bowl 2: Eggs whisked with milk. Bowl 3: Both breadcrumbs mixed with all spices and herbs.
  3. Working one at a time, dredge a cheese stick in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
  4. Dip the flour-coated stick into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
  5. Press the stick into the breadcrumb mixture to coat.
  6. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps (Double Dip) to create a thick, secure shell.
  7. Place coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 2 hours (this is crucial to prevent leaking).
  8. Heat oil in a large pot to 365°F (185°C).
  9. Fry sticks in small batches for 1.5 to 2 minutes until golden brown.
  10. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack. Serve immediately with marinara sauce.

Notes

Ensure oil returns to temperature between batches.