The Best Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making homemade mozzarella sticks is easier than you think, and the results are way better than store-bought. You’ll love how crispy, cheesy, and satisfying they turn out every time.
- Simple ingredients – With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in no time.
- Perfectly melty cheese – No more guessing if they’ll be gooey inside—these sticks deliver every time.
- Fun to customize – Add your favorite seasonings or dips to make them your own.
Recipe
Mozzarella sticks are a crispy, cheesy appetizer that’s easy to make at home. With a golden breadcrumb coating and gooey melted cheese inside, they’re perfect for dipping in marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- ½ cup marinara sauce (for serving)
Instructions:
- Cut each mozzarella stick in half crosswise.
- Place flour in a shallow bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs and water.
- In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each cheese stick in flour, then dip in egg mixture, and finally roll in breadcrumb mixture. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a thicker coating.
- Place coated sticks on a tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry sticks in batches for about 30 seconds per side or until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with marinara sauce.
Notes:
- Freezing prevents the cheese from melting too quickly.
- For a baked version, place on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes.
Equipment:
- 3 shallow bowls
- Deep skillet or frying pan
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Freezing time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4-6 people
Nutrition
Mozzarella sticks are a popular snack, but they can be high in calories and fat. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Sodium | 450mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 12g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade mozzarella sticks with a variety of dips, like marinara, ranch, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. They also go great with simple sides, such as a crisp green salad or garlic bread, to round out the meal. It’s fun to experiment with combos and find your favorite!
Dip Options
When it comes to dipping your mozzarella sticks, there’s no shortage of tasty options to explore, and I’ve got a few favorites that never disappoint. Marinara sauce is a classic choice, with its tangy tomato flavor complementing the cheesy goodness perfectly. Ranch dressing adds a cool, creamy contrast that’s always satisfying. If you’re feeling adventurous, try spicy sriracha mayo or honey mustard for a sweet and tangy kick. Garlic aioli is another winner, offering rich, savory notes. For something lighter, balsamic glaze drizzled over the sticks adds a sophisticated touch. Whatever you choose, dipping is half the fun!
Side Dishes
Alongside your crispy mozzarella sticks, there’s plenty of room to get creative with side dishes that’ll round out your meal perfectly. I love pairing them with a fresh garden salad—the crunch balances the gooey cheese. Garlic bread or buttery toast points are classic choices, soaking up any leftover marinara. For something heartier, try sweet potato fries or onion rings—they’re just as fun to dip! If you’re feeling fancy, a charcuterie board with cured meats and pickles adds a gourmet touch. Don’t forget veggies like celery or carrot sticks for a lighter option. Mix and match to find your favorite combo!
