Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Homemade Cheese Sticks with Crispy Breaded Coating and Dipping Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 60 reviews

This Homemade Cheese Sticks recipe delivers perfectly crispy golden sticks with gooey melted mozzarella inside. Coated in a seasoned Italian breadcrumb crust and fried to golden perfection, these cheese sticks make an irresistible appetizer or snack served with pizza or marinara sauce for dipping. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this classic comfort food is easy to prepare at home in just 30 minutes.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings

Ingredients

Cheese Sticks

  • 16 oz Mozzarella Cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups Italian Bread Crumbs
  • 1 1/2 cups Flour
  • 5 Eggs
  • 1 tbsp Milk
  • 1 1/2 cups Water
  • 4-5 cups Vegetable Oil (enough to fill a saucepan about half full)

Dipping Sauce (Optional)

  • Pizza Sauce or Marinara Sauce for Dipping

Instructions

  1. Cut the Cheese: Slice the mozzarella cheese into sticks about 1/4 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly and melt properly inside.
  2. Prepare Egg Wash: Crack the eggs into a bowl, add the milk, and beat well to create a smooth egg wash that will help the breadcrumbs adhere.
  3. Set Up Breading Station: Arrange bowls in order: one with water, one with flour, the egg wash bowl, and finally the Italian breadcrumbs bowl for an efficient coating process.
  4. Coat the Cheese Sticks: Dip each mozzarella stick first into the water, then thoroughly coat in flour. Next, dip into the egg wash ensuring full coverage, then roll in breadcrumbs to create a crunchy crust.
  5. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a saucepan filling it about halfway and heat to 350°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dipping a toothpick—if it bubbles around it, the oil is ready.
  6. Fry the Cheese Sticks: Carefully place the coated sticks in the hot oil and fry for 1-2 minutes, watching closely until they turn golden brown but are not burnt.
  7. Drain Excess Oil: Remove fried cheese sticks with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease.
  8. Repeat and Serve: Continue the breading and frying process for all sticks. Serve warm with pizza or marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy!

Notes

  • Ensure oil temperature stays around 350°F for crispy, non-greasy cheese sticks.
  • Work quickly when breading to prevent cheese from melting before frying.
  • Use low moisture mozzarella cheese for best results to avoid excessive melting or oozing.
  • Serve immediately for optimal gooey texture and crispiness.
  • For a spicier twist, add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian-American