Save Pin
These homemade mozzarella bites are crunchy outside, gooey in the middle, and just right for snacking or sharing with friends. They’re coated in flavorful breadcrumbs and fried until crispy and golden brown. Dunking them in rich, chunky marinara sauce makes every bite better and super crunchy.
Tasty Ingredients
- Marinara sauce: thick, tangy, and perfect for dunking those cheesy sticks
- Vegetable oil: a basic oil with a high smoke point, best for frying up the sticks
- Black pepper: gives a little mild heat to round things out
- Salt: makes all the flavors pop together
- Dried oregano: classic herby flavor you taste in every bite
- Onion powder: brings a gentle sweetness
- Garlic powder: delivers that savory kick you want
- Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: brings herb flavor and crackle, but you can use plain ones plus your own mix of spices
- Large eggs: helps the coating really latch on
- All-purpose flour: this helps everything stick and keeps the cheese in shape
- Mozzarella sticks: string cheese is easiest, or you can slice a block into stick shapes for that fresh bite
Super Easy Steps
- Drain and Serve
- Once fried, lift the sticks out with a slotted spoon onto paper towels so the oil soaks off. Keep batches warm as you go and serve with lots of marinara or sprinkle with herbs like oregano or parsley if you want a fresh finish.
- Fry Them Up
- Warm your oil in a sturdy pan to around 350°F (about 175°C). Drop in the cheese sticks gently, don’t squish them together. Give them one to two minutes per side until they’re all golden.
- Coat the Mozzarella
- After the fridge, take each stick through flour, then dip in the eggs, and roll them in your breadcrumb seasoning—press to make it stay. Do the same coat process again if you want extra crunch then pop them back in the freezer for a bit.
- Prep the Breading Bowls
- Line up three bowls: the first with flour, some salt, and pepper; the second with eggs and a splash of milk or water; and a third with breadcrumbs mixed up with onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Chill and Slice Cheese
- Slice a block of mozzarella into sticks (about 3 to 4 inches long and half inch thick), or just use string cheese. Lay them out, freeze for at least 30 minutes so they won’t fall apart when frying.
Save Pin
Storing Tricks
Pop leftovers in a sealed container and stick them in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for about eight minutes so they crisp up instead of microwaving them. For make-ahead, freeze plain cheese sticks first, then dump in a bag and fry straight from frozen.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
Try provolone or even mild cheddar instead of mozzarella for a new flavor, but check their moisture so things don’t get soggy. Out of seasoned breadcrumbs? Grab plain and toss in those dried Italian herbs. Canola or light olive oil are totally fine to use for frying.
Fun Ways to Serve
Toss some extra marinara or spicy ranch on the table for dipping. Add a salad or roasted veggies, especially if you want to balance out all that cheese. They're also awesome alongside wings or sliders when you’re serving up some snacks.
Where They Came From
Mozzarella sticks are a classic bar snack in the States inspired by Italian eats. They use mozzarella from southern Italy, and the whole crispy breaded frying thing comes from Italian fritti—but it’s way simpler and just right for snacking at home.
Save Pin
Common Questions
- → Which cheese is best for these sticks?
Use mozzarella string cheese or cut firm mozzarella blocks into sticks. Choose a mild cheese that melts well and stretches nicely.
- → How do I keep cheese from leaking when frying?
Freeze the sticks for at least 30 minutes before breading and frying. It helps them hold together and keeps the cheese from oozing out too soon.
- → What spices make the breadcrumb coating tasty?
Add garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper for a flavorful crust that pairs great with mozzarella.
- → Can these be baked instead of fried?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier way. Just arrange the coated sticks on a tray, spray some oil, then bake at a high temp until golden and crisp.
- → How do I know if the oil is hot enough?
The best temp is about 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer or drop in a breadcrumb—if it bubbles and fries fast, you’re good to go.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes! Freeze the breaded sticks on a tray first, then store them in a bag. Fry them straight from frozen whenever you want a quick snack.