Fried Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Freeze cheese

Place the 6 mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined tray in a single layer and freeze for at least 30 minutes. Freezing firms the cheese so it doesn't leak during frying.

Prepare dry flour

Put 1 cup all-purpose flour in a shallow bowl or plate and set aside for the first dredge. Reserve 2 tablespoons cornstarch or extra flour in a small bowl for optional dusting.

Prepare egg wash

Crack 2 eggs into a medium bowl, add 2 tablespoons cold water, and whisk until smooth. Reserve the additional beaten egg separately (if using double-dip method) in another shallow bowl.

Prepare breadcrumb mix

In a separate shallow bowl combine 1.5 cups breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan, 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix thoroughly.

Working with one frozen mozzarella stick at a time, lightly dust it with the reserved cornstarch or extra flour to help the egg adhere.

Dredge the dusted stick in the flour bowl, shaking off excess.

Dip the floured stick into the egg wash, coating all sides. Let excess drip off.

Press the egg-coated stick into the breadcrumb mixture, turning to coat thoroughly and pressing firmly so crumbs adhere. For a stronger coating, return the breaded stick to the egg (additional beaten egg) and then into the breadcrumbs again for a double coat.

Place the breaded stick on a parchment-lined tray and repeat with remaining sticks. Once all are breaded, freeze on the tray for at least 15–30 minutes (longer if possible, up to 1–2 hours) to set the coating and further firm the cheese.

Pour about 3–4 cups neutral oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to reach a depth of about 1.5–2 inches. Heat oil over medium heat to 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping a small breadcrumb into the oil — it should sizzle and brown in about 30–60 seconds.

Fry the mozzarella sticks in small batches (2–3 at a time) to avoid lowering the oil temperature. Carefully add frozen breaded sticks to the hot oil using tongs.

Fry for 1.5–2 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown and crisp. Do not overcook — cheese will melt quickly once the crust forms.

Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the sticks and transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain. Let rest 1–2 minutes before serving (cheese will be very hot).

Serve the 6 fried mozzarella sticks hot with about 1/2 cup marinara or your preferred dipping sauce on the side.

If desired, garnish the marinara with a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or chopped fresh basil.