How to Make Mozzarella Sticks with String Cheese

Craving something crispy, cheesy, and downright irresistible? Look no further than homemade mozzarella sticks. And guess what? You don’t need fancy ingredients or chef-level skills to whip these up. With just a pack of string cheese and a few pantry staples, you can create a snack that’ll have everyone begging for more. Let’s dive into this easy, step-by-step guide to making mozzarella sticks that are golden, crunchy, and oozing with cheesy goodness.

What You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s gather the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need to make about 20 mozzarella sticks (because, let’s be honest, 10 just isn’t enough):

• 10 pieces of string cheese (cut in half for bite-sized perfection)
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour (for that first layer of crunch)
• 2 large eggs (the glue that holds everything together)
• 2 tablespoons of milk (to lighten up the egg wash)
• 2 cups of breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned is my go-to for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better)
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder (for a subtle savory kick)
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano (hello, Italian vibes)
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil (because herbs are life)
• Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip this—seasoning is key!)
• Vegetable oil for frying (enough to fill your pot or skillet about 2 inches deep)

Step 1: Set Up Your Breading Station

First things first, let’s get organized. You’ll need three shallow dishes for the breading process. Think of it as an assembly line for cheesy greatness:

1. Dish 1: All-purpose flour. This is your first layer of defense to keep the cheese from escaping during frying.
2. Dish 2: Whisk together the eggs and milk. This is your “glue” that helps the breadcrumbs stick.
3. Dish 3: Mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens—your crispy, flavorful coating.

Step 2: Bread Those Cheese Sticks

Now comes the fun part—turning plain string cheese into golden, crunchy mozzarella sticks. Here’s how:

1. Unwrap your string cheese and cut each piece in half. This makes them easier to handle and ensures they cook evenly.
2. Roll each cheese stick in the flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess—you don’t want clumpy breading.
3. Dip the floured cheese into the egg mixture, coating it completely. Let any extra drip off so the breadcrumbs stick better.
4. Roll the cheese in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure it’s well coated. For an extra-crispy crust, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps. Trust me, it’s worth the effort.
5. Place the breaded cheese sticks on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer for at least an hour. This step is crucial—it helps the coating stay put when you fry them.

Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection

Now for the moment of truth—frying your mozzarella sticks to golden, melty perfection. Here’s how to do it like a pro:

1. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot or deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping in a breadcrumb—if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go.
2. Carefully add a few cheese sticks to the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pot, or the temperature will drop, and your sticks won’t crisp up properly.
3. Fry for about 1-2 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them—they cook fast!
4. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried cheese sticks to a paper towel-lined plate. This helps soak up any excess oil.
5. Repeat with the remaining cheese sticks, and don’t forget to let the oil come back up to temperature between batches.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Here’s the best part—eating them! Mozzarella sticks are at their peak when served hot and fresh, with that irresistible gooey cheese pull. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce—marinara is a classic, but ranch, garlic aioli, or even spicy sriracha mayo are fantastic options. These make the perfect appetizer for game day, movie night, or just because. And let’s be real, they’re also a great excuse to eat cheese for dinner.

Pro Tips for Mozzarella Stick Success

• Freeze before frying: Don’t skip the freezing step. It’s what keeps the cheese from oozing out during frying.
• Double bread for extra crunch: If you’re a fan of super-crispy coatings, double dip your cheese sticks in the egg and breadcrumbs.
• Use an air fryer: Want a lighter option? You can air fry these at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as deep-fried, but they’re still delicious.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the breadcrumbs for a spicy twist.

And there you have it—homemade mozzarella sticks that are crispy, cheesy, and downright addictive. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, this recipe is a winner. So grab that string cheese and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you!