Mozzarella Sticks (5) Recipe

Freeze cheese

Unwrap the 5 mozzarella sticks and place them on a parchment-lined plate or small baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for at least 30 minutes (up to 1 hour). Freezing firms the cheese so it melts more slowly during frying.

Set up breading stations

Line three shallow bowls or plates: Bowl 1 — combine all-purpose flour (1 cup) with cornstarch (0.25 cup) and 1/2 teaspoon salt; mix and spread evenly. Bowl 2 — whisk the 2 eggs with 2 tablespoons milk until smooth. Bowl 3 — combine breadcrumbs (1 cup), grated Parmesan (2 tablespoons), Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon), garlic powder (1 teaspoon), remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper (1/2 teaspoon); mix and spread evenly.

Working one at a time, remove a frozen mozzarella stick. Dredge it first in the flour-cornstarch mixture, shaking off excess so a thin, even coating remains.

Dip the floured stick into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow excess egg to drip off.

Roll the stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere a generous, even layer. For best results, for each stick repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb step once more (double-coat) to create a thicker barrier that reduces cheese leakage.

Place coated sticks on a baking sheet or plate and return to the freezer for at least 20 minutes (recommended 30 minutes). This second freeze helps the coating set and further reduces cheese escape during frying.

Pour about 2–3 cups (or enough to give 1.5–2 inches depth) of neutral oil into a medium saucepan or deep skillet. Heat over medium-high until oil reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping a small breadcrumb — it should sizzle and brown in about 30–45 seconds.

Fry the chilled, breaded mozzarella sticks in small batches (2–3 at a time depending on pan size) for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes total, turning gently with tongs or a slotted spoon so all sides brown evenly. Do not overcrowd. Aim for a golden-brown exterior; avoid frying longer than 1 1/2–2 minutes to minimize bursting.

Using a slotted spoon, transfer fried sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. If desired, keep warm in a single layer on a tray in a preheated 200°F (95°C) oven while you finish remaining batches.

Serve the mozzarella sticks immediately with 1/2 cup warmed marinara sauce for dipping. Let cool about 1 minute before eating as cheese will be very hot.