There’s just something about fried cheese. I’ve made these for family nights, parties, and even just a random Tuesday — and I swear, they disappear faster than anything else I cook.

These Deep-Fried Mozzarella Sticks are crispy on the outside, perfectly melty on the inside, and totally restaurant-worthy. But the best part? They’re easy to make at home — and you get to eat as many as you want. 

Ingredients

• 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks (cut in half for smaller pieces)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 2 tbsp milk

• 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp dried parsley

• Vegetable oil, for frying

• Marinara sauce, for dipping

Instructions

1. Prep the cheese
   Cut string cheese in half (or keep whole for extra-long sticks). Freeze for at least 30 minutes — this prevents melting too fast during frying.

2. Set up your dredging station

   • Bowl 1: flour

   • Bowl 2: beaten eggs + milk

   • Bowl 3: breadcrumbs + garlic powder + parsley

3. Coat the cheese sticks
   Dip each cheese stick into flour → egg mixture → breadcrumbs. Repeat egg + breadcrumb step for a double coating. Place back in the freezer for 15–20 minutes.

4. Heat the oil
   In a deep skillet or pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry 4–5 sticks at a time for 1–2 minutes, until golden brown.

5. Drain and serve
   Place fried sticks on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot with warm marinara sauce.

Sarah’s Tips

• Don’t skip freezing — it keeps them from bursting while frying.

• Want extra crunch? Use panko breadcrumbs for the second coating.

• Make a big batch and freeze them breaded and uncooked — fry straight from the freezer later!

• Pair with ranch, marinara, or even garlic aioli for dipping.

Nutrition (per 2 sticks)

• Calories: ~300

• Carbs: 18g

• Fat: 20g

• Protein: 12g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: ~450mg