Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Cut the cheese

Trim the mozzarella log into 3/4-inch by 3/4-inch by 3-3.5-inch sticks. You should get about 12–16 sticks from 1 lb. Pat each stick dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Optional re-forming (if using loose shredded mozzarella)

If using shredded mozzarella to form sticks, mix shredded cheese in a bowl, press firmly into a small rectangular mold or line a loaf pan, freeze 20–30 minutes until firm, then cut into sticks as above. Pat dry before breading.

Set up breading station

Line three shallow bowls or dinner plates: one with the flour (seasoned with 1/4 tsp salt and a pinch of pepper), one with beaten eggs mixed with milk, and one with the breadcrumbs combined with grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, remaining 3/4 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix breadcrumbs thoroughly.

First coat

Working with 3–4 sticks at a time, dredge each dried mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess. This helps the egg adhere.

Egg wash

Dip the floured sticks into the egg mixture, coating completely.

Breadcrumb coating

Roll the egg-coated sticks in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. For a thicker, crunchier coating, return each breaded stick to the egg wash and then again to the breadcrumbs for a double coat.

Freeze to set

Place the breaded sticks on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours). Freezing prevents cheese from leaking during frying.

Heat the oil

Pour oil into a deep, heavy pot or a deep fryer to a depth of 2–3 inches (about 4–6 cups, depending on pot). Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy. If you don't have a thermometer, test with a small breadcrumb — it should sizzle and turn golden in about 30–45 seconds.

Fry the sticks

Fry 3–5 breaded sticks at a time (do not overcrowd) for 1.5–2.5 minutes, turning gently with a slotted spoon or spider so all sides become golden brown. Cook just until golden — overcooking will cause the cheese to burst out.

Drain

Use a slotted spoon to transfer fried sticks to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or to paper towels to drain excess oil. Let rest 1–2 minutes before serving; the cheese will be very hot inside.

Warm the marinara

Heat marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat until warmed through, or microwave in a covered dish for 1–2 minutes.

Serve

Arrange mozzarella sticks on a platter, garnish with a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with warmed marinara sauce for dipping.