Go Back
–+ servings

Easy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks with Perfect Crunch

Rose
These easy homemade mozzarella sticks deliver a perfectly golden, crispy panko coating with irresistibly melty cheese inside. Simple ingredients, flexible cooking methods, and pro tips ensure a restaurant-quality appetizer right at home.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • shallow bowls For breading stations
  • baking sheet For freezing the sticks
  • parchment paper
  • deep fryer or heavy pot Optional, for frying
  • air fryer or oven Alternative cooking methods
  • thermometer To monitor oil temperature

Ingredients
  

  • 12–15 mozzarella string cheese sticks or low-moisture mozzarella cut into sticks
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp water
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp dried parsley (optional)
  • vegetable oil for frying or cooking spray for air fryer or oven
  • warm marinara sauce for serving

Instructions
 

  • Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and water, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley.
  • Roll each mozzarella stick in flour, dip into the egg wash, then coat thoroughly with the seasoned panko. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating.
  • Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking.
  • Cook using your preferred method: deep fry at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes, air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes turning once, or bake at 415°F (210°C) for 10–15 minutes flipping halfway, until golden.
  • Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce while hot and melty.

Notes

For best results, always freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks thoroughly before cooking and use low-moisture mozzarella. Double breading helps prevent leaks and boosts crunch. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 14gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 620mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 350IUCalcium: 280mgIron: 1.2mg
Keyword crispy cheese sticks, game day appetizer, homemade mozzarella sticks, mozzarella sticks
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!