Mozz Sticks Recipe

Prep cheese sticks

Unwrap the string cheese and cut each stick in half crosswise so you have 12 shorter sticks. Pat each piece dry with a paper towel to remove surface moisture — this helps prevent leaking during frying.

Set up breading stations

Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In a second shallow bowl, whisk the 3 eggs with 2 tablespoons cold water until combined. In a third shallow bowl, combine the plain breadcrumbs, panko (if using), grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper; mix well.

Triple-coat the sticks

Working with 2–3 sticks at a time, dredge each cheese stick in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat completely. For an extra-secure coating (to minimize cheese leakage), return the stick to the egg wash and then to the breadcrumbs for a second coating. Place coated sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes (longer if possible, up to 2 hours) — this helps the cheese hold its shape when frying.

Heat oil

Pour about 3–4 inches of vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven (approximately 6 cups). Attach a thermometer to the side. Heat the oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil — it should brown in about 60 seconds.

Fry in batches

Remove the frozen coated cheese sticks from the freezer just before frying. Fry 3–4 sticks at a time (do not overcrowd) for 45–60 seconds, turning once, until golden brown. The short fry time ensures the coating crisps without the cheese fully leaking out. Use a slotted spoon or spider to transfer cooked sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Keep warm and finish

If making multiple batches, keep the finished mozzarella sticks warm on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you finish frying the rest. Frying times may vary slightly depending on oil temperature and stick thickness — avoid prolonged frying which will cause the cheese to burst out.

Prepare dipping sauce (optional)

Warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat until hot. Stir in the chopped fresh basil or dried basil and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Arrange the drained mozzarella sticks on a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately with the warm marinara sauce for dipping.