Homemade Mozzarella Sticks
Crispy on the outside, melty on the inside — these Homemade Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate kid-approved snack and party favorite. Made with simple ingredients and freezer-friendly for convenience, they’re a better-than-store-bought classic that moms love to keep on hand.
Serve them as a fun after-school snack, a game day appetizer, or even a side for soup or pasta night. Paired with marinara or ranch, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast!
💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Crispy, cheesy, and golden every time
- Freezer-friendly — make a big batch in advance
- No preservatives or fillers like store-bought versions
- Fun and easy to make with kids
- Great for lunchboxes, movie nights, or party platters
🛒 Ingredients (Makes 16 sticks)
- 16 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tbsp milk
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Marinara or ranch, for dipping
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Prep the Cheese:
Cut mozzarella sticks in half if desired. Place them on a tray and freeze for at least 30–60 minutes. This helps keep the cheese from melting too quickly when frying.
2. Set Up Breading Station:
In three bowls, place:
- Flour
- Eggs mixed with milk
- Panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, seasoning, and salt
3. Bread the Cheese Sticks:
Dip each frozen cheese stick into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally the seasoned breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps. Return breaded sticks to the freezer for at least 15 minutes.
4. Fry:
Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry a few sticks at a time for 1–2 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve:
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce — marinara, ranch, or even honey mustard!
💡 Tips & Variations:
- Bake instead of fry: Bake at 400°F for 8–10 mins, or air fry at 390°F for 6–8 mins.
- Use seasoned breadcrumbs for more flavor.
- Want to make them spicy? Add a pinch of cayenne to the breadcrumbs.
- Swap in dairy-free cheese for a kid-friendly allergen alternative.
🥡 Storage Tips:
- Store leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer or oven to regain crispiness.
- Freeze uncooked breaded sticks for up to 2 months — fry straight from frozen.
✨ Final Thoughts:
These Homemade Mozzarella Sticks are cheesy, crunchy perfection — and way better than anything from the freezer aisle. With their golden crust and gooey center, they’re a mom-approved favorite for snacks, appetizers, or anytime cravings hit.
