Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Introduction

Mozzarella sticks are a classic snack that delivers gooey melted cheese wrapped in a crispy, flavorful crust. Perfect for parties or a comforting treat, these homemade mozzarella sticks are easy to make and sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 200g low moisture mozzarella
• Neutral oil for deep frying
• 90g plain flour/all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt
• 150ml cold water
• 100g panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp chilli flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut the block of mozzarella into sticks about 1cm thick or to your preferred size.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, a pinch of salt, and cold water until you have a smooth batter.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with dried oregano, basil, chilli flakes (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Step 4: Set up a dredging station with the mozzarella sticks, the flour batter, the seasoned breadcrumbs, and a wire rack.
5. Step 5: Dip each mozzarella stick into the flour batter, letting excess drip off, then coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture. Place coated sticks on the wire rack.
6. Step 6: Let the coated sticks rest on the wire rack for 10 minutes to allow the coating to set.
7. Step 7: Repeat the batter and breadcrumb coating process a second time for each stick, then rest again on the wire rack for another 10 minutes.
8. Step 8: Arrange the mozzarella sticks on a lined baking tray spaced apart and freeze for at least 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
9. Step 9: When ready to cook, heat oil in a saucepan to 190°C (375°F). Prepare a paper towel-lined tray with a wire rack to drain the sticks.
10. Step 10: Deep fry the mozzarella sticks in batches of about three to keep the oil temperature steady. Fry until golden and crispy, then transfer to the wire rack to drain.
11. Step 11: Serve immediately with your favorite tomato or marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, double coating the sticks helps keep the cheese inside and creates a crispier crust.
• Try adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs for a smoky or spicy twist.
• Use low moisture mozzarella to prevent excess melting and cheese leakage during frying.

Storage

Freeze leftover mozzarella sticks for up to 3 months after flash freezing them individually. Reheat by frying directly from frozen to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy and cause the cheese to melt unevenly.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake mozzarella sticks instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 200°C (400°F) for 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy, but frying generally gives a better, crispier texture.

How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out during frying?

Double coating the sticks and freezing them well before frying helps keep the cheese contained and prevents oozing. Using low moisture mozzarella also reduces the risk.