Fried Mozzarella Recipe

Cut cheese

Unwrap the 16 oz block of low-moisture mozzarella. Pat dry with paper towels. Cut into 1/2-inch thick slices, then trim into sticks roughly 3 inches long and 1/2 inch wide (about 16 sticks). Pat again to remove surface moisture. Place on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 30–45 minutes until firm but not rock solid.

Prepare breading

Set up three shallow bowls or rimmed plates: Bowl 1 — flour. Season the flour lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper. Bowl 2 — whisk together 2 large eggs and 2 tablespoons milk until uniform. Bowl 3 — combine 1 cup plain breadcrumbs, 1 cup panko (if using), 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix thoroughly.

Triple-coat the sticks

Working with 3–4 sticks at a time, dredge each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so crumbs adhere. For a sturdier coating, return the coated sticks to the egg wash and breadcrumbs for a second coating. Place the breaded sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes (recommended 1 hour).

Heat oil

Pour 3–4 cups vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to a depth of about 1.5–2 inches. Heat to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat. If you don’t have a thermometer, heat until a small cube of bread browns in about 30–35 seconds.

Fry in small batches to avoid temperature drop. Remove breaded sticks from the freezer just before frying. Carefully lower 3–4 sticks into the hot oil using a slotted spoon or spider. Fry 1 to 1 1/4 minutes, turning once, until golden brown. Do not overcook — long frying will cause excessive cheese leakage.

Using a slotted spoon, transfer fried mozzarella sticks to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or to paper towels to drain. If desired, lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray to keep them crisp. Fry remaining sticks, allowing oil to return to 350°F between batches.

Optional: To ensure the cheese is melted through but sticks remain crisp, you can finish them in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 3–4 minutes after frying.

Arrange fried mozzarella sticks on a platter. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately with warmed marinara or ranch in small bowls and lemon wedges if using. For safety and best texture, consume within 10 minutes of frying.