Crispy Baked Mozzarella Sticks

There’s nothing quite like grabbing a warm, Crispy Baked Mozzarella Sticks right from the oven, gooey cheese, crunch‑on‑the‑outside, comfort in every bite. This recipe delivers all the flavor of classic fried mozzarella sticks but with the ease of baking and less mess. Whether you’re prepping snacks for game day, a movie night, or a casual get‑together, these sticks are a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crunchy coating & melty center: Panko breadcrumbs deliver the crisp, while the cheese inside stays perfectly gooey.
• Baked, not fried: Get the texture you love with less oil and fuss.
• Simple ingredients: String cheese (or cut block mozzarella), flour, eggs, seasoned breadcrumbs, nothing complicated.
• Make‑ahead friendly: Prep and freeze the sticks so you can bake them fresh whenever you like.
• Perfect for sharing: An appetizer or snack that disappears fast, ideal for friends, family, and gatherings.

Ingredients

• 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks (or an 8‑oz block mozzarella cut into sticks)
• ½ cup all‑purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs (or mix panko + Italian seasoning + garlic powder)
• Cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil
• Marinara sauce (or ranch) for dipping
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

1. Prepare the cheese sticks: If using block mozzarella, cut into sticks about 3‑4 inches long. Chill or freeze briefly so they’re firm.
2. Set up your breading station: Place flour in one shallow bowl. Beat eggs and water in a second bowl. In a third bowl, combine seasoned breadcrumbs.
3. Dredge the cheese: One stick at a time: roll in flour (shake off excess), dip into egg mixture, then coat in breadcrumbs. For extra crisp, return to egg and breadcrumbs for a second coating.
4. Freeze the coated sticks: Place on a parchment‑lined tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes (or up to a few hours) to prevent cheese from leaking when baking.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 400 °F (200 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment, lightly spray or drizzle sticks with oil. Arrange sticks spaced out and bake for 10‑12 minutes, turning once halfway, until golden and crispy.
6. Serve warm: Let them rest 1‑2 minutes, then serve with marinara sauce or your favorite dip. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use block mozzarella instead of string cheese for better texture and longer cheese pull.
• Double‑coat with breadcrumbs for maximum crisp and minimal leaking.
• Freeze before baking: this is the secret to avoiding melted messes and achieving gooey centers.
• Flavor the coating: mix in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika or parmesan cheese to elevate the crust.
• Change the dip: Serve with marinara, but try ranch, garlic aioli or spicy sriracha‑mayo for a twist.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: After baking, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Re‑crisp in a 350 °F oven for 5 minutes.
• Freeze (unbaked): After coating but before baking, freeze sticks on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 2‑3 minutes to time.
• Reheat: For best texture, re‑bake at 375 °F for 5‑7 minutes rather than microwaving, so coating stays crisp.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Dipping sauce lineup: Classic marinara, ranch dressing, garlic‑parmesan aioli, or honey‑sriracha mix.
• Side options: Pair with a crisp Caesar or green salad to balance richness, or roasted veggies for a fuller snack‑meal.
• Occasions: Game night, movie night, kids’ after‑school snack or party appetizer.
• Beverages: Iced tea with lemon, sparkling soda, or a light lager work wonderfully alongside these.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen store‑bought mozzarella sticks instead of making them from scratch?

Yes, you can save time by buying frozen premade sticks and baking as directed. But if you have time, homemade coating offers better crunch, seasoning control, and fewer additives.

What if the cheese oozes out during baking?

Most often this happens when sticks weren’t frozen or coated well. Freeze for at least 30‑60 minutes after coating, and use panko/seasoned breadcrumb mix to build a robust shell.

Are baked mozzarella sticks healthier than fried?

Yes, baking uses less oil and avoids deep‑frying, reducing fat and mess. It still gives a satisfying crunch when done properly.

Can I make these ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! Coat and freeze them ahead, then bake right before serving for fresh‑out‑of‑the‑oven crunch. Have your dipping sauces ready and warm when guests arrive.

Ready to Make It?

These Crispy Baked Mozzarella Sticks deliver all the chewy, melty cheese and crisp crust you crave, minus the heavy fry‑up. Whether you’re prepping for game day, a cozy movie night, or a fun appetizer run, they’re simple, shareable, and irresistible. Pin this recipe now and save it for your next snack moment.

You Might Also Like

• Creamy Salmon Risotto – Rich and comforting Italian-style risotto with tender salmon flakes in a creamy sauce
• White Chicken Enchiladas – Shredded chicken wrapped in tortillas, bathed in creamy sauce and cheese.
• Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin – Baked cauliflower in creamy sauce topped with golden cheese and breadcrumbs.
• Ground Beef Bulgogi – Korean‑inspired seasoned beef stir‑fry served with rice for quick dinners.

Print