Cheddar Mozzarella Sticks
These crispy cheddar mozzarella sticks are crunchy on the outside, oozy and cheesy on the inside—perfect for parties, snacks, or cozy family evenings.
Calories:
Ingredients
For the Cheese Sticks
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese or thin cheddar strips pressed onto mozzarella
For the Breading
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 2 tbsp milk
- 2 cups seasoned Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika optional for color and mild spice
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
For Frying
- Vegetable canola, or peanut oil (enough for deep frying)
For Dipping
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic aioli
- Spicy sriracha mayo
Instructions
- Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and, if desired, press shredded or thin strips of cheddar onto them. Freeze for 30–40 minutes so the cheese won’t melt too fast when cooked.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper, another with whisked eggs and milk, and a third with breadcrumbs, panko, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Roll each frozen stick in flour, dip in the egg wash, then coat in breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, dip again in egg wash and breadcrumbs. Arrange on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for another 30 minutes.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry 3–4 sticks at a time for 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with dipping sauces.
- For a lighter option, preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C), spray the breaded sticks lightly with cooking spray, and cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and gooey inside.