Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Nothing beats the gooey, melty satisfaction of Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks. Whether you’re hosting a game night, enjoying a movie marathon, or just craving a delicious snack, these cheese sticks are the perfect treat. With a crispy panko coating and stretchy mozzarella inside, they’re a crowd-pleaser that you can easily make at home. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get frying!

Why It Deserves a Spot

These Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks elevate your snack game to new heights. Unlike store-bought versions, these cheese sticks are made from scratch, allowing you to control the ingredients and flavor. The panko breadcrumb coating adds a delightful crunch, while the seasoned flour gives an extra layer of flavor. Plus, they’re perfect for dipping in your favorite marinara sauce, making them a fun appetizer or snack option for any occasion.

Ingredient List

To make these delicious Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb whole milk mozzarella block
• 3 cups plain panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp each of garlic powder, dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and pepper
• 1/4 tsp each of dried thyme, dried oregano, paprika, and onion powder
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Marinara sauce for dipping (we like Rao’s)

What’s in the Gear List

To whip up these cheese sticks, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials:

• Cutting board – for slicing the mozzarella.
• Sharp knife – for cutting the cheese into sticks.
• Three shallow bowls – for the flour, egg mixture, and breadcrumbs.
• Large skillet or deep fryer – for frying the cheese sticks.
• Paper towels – for draining excess oil.

Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks: How It’s Done

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create these scrumptious Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks.

Step 1: Prepare the Mozzarella

Begin by slicing the whole milk mozzarella block into sticks, each about 1/2 inch wide. Aim for uniformity so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station

In three shallow bowls, prepare your dredging station. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined. In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with all the spices: garlic powder, dried basil, dried parsley, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, paprika, and onion powder.

Step 3: Coat the Cheese Sticks

Take a mozzarella stick and coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, roll it in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s well coated. Repeat this process for all mozzarella sticks.

Step 4: Chill the Cheese Sticks

Once all the cheese sticks are coated, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the cheese stay intact during frying.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or deep fryer, pour in vegetable oil to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles and browns quickly, it’s ready.

Step 6: Fry the Cheese Sticks

Carefully add a few cheese sticks to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!

Ingredient Flex Options

Personalize your Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks with these ingredient flex options:

• Cheese Variations: Try using cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a twist.
• Breadcrumb Alternatives: Swap panko for crushed cornflakes or traditional breadcrumbs.
• Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Don’t Do This

When making Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks, avoid the following common mistakes:

• Skipping the Freezing Step: This is crucial for keeping the cheese from melting out during frying.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Opt for a good quality whole milk mozzarella for the best results.
• Not Draining Properly: Ensure to drain on paper towels to avoid soggy sticks.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you have any leftover Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Meal Prep: You can prepare the cheese sticks in advance and freeze them raw. Just fry them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy.

Quick Questions

Can I bake these cheese sticks instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), place the cheese sticks on a baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

What dipping sauces pair well with mozzarella sticks?

Marinara sauce is the classic choice, but ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo also complement cheese sticks beautifully.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles and browns quickly, it’s ready for frying. A thermometer will also help ensure the oil reaches 350°F (175°C).

Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella for this recipe?

While you can use pre-shredded mozzarella, it may not hold up as well during frying. Blocks of mozzarella provide a better texture and melty consistency.

Try These Next

If you loved making Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks, you might also enjoy these delicious recipes:

• Caprese Tomato Mozzarella Pasta
• Caprese Tomato Mozzarella Penne

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this recipe for Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! They’ll thank you for introducing them to this cheesy delight. Happy cooking!