Easy Homemade Cheese Sticks Recipe

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Easy Homemade Cheese Sticks Recipe

If you love the classic golden, crunchy, stretchy cheese sticks served at your favorite restaurants, this homemade version will become your go-to appetizer. These cheese sticks are crisp on the outside, perfectly melty on the inside, and made with simple ingredients you likely already have at home. They are ideal for parties, game nights, or even as a quick treat for the family.

The secret to perfect homemade cheese sticks lies in proper coating and freezing—two steps that guarantee that beautiful, gooey center without leaking during frying. Follow this detailed guide for consistently delicious results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy and golden with a perfectly melted cheese center
  • Easy to prepare using simple ingredients
  • Freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead snacks
  • Perfect for dipping in marinara or your favorite sauce

Ingredients

For the Cheese Sticks

  • 12 mozzarella cheese sticks, or a block of mozzarella cut into sticks (each 3–4 inches long and ½ inch thick)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 tablespoons milk
  • 1½ cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended for maximum crunch)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

For Serving

  • Warm marinara sauce
  • Ranch dressing (optional)

How to Make Homemade Cheese Sticks

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese

If using a block of mozzarella, cut it into even sticks. Place the sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them for 30–60 minutes.
Freezing helps the cheese keep its shape during cooking.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

Prepare three shallow bowls:

  1. Flour Bowl: Add the flour.
  2. Egg Bowl: Whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
  3. Breadcrumb Bowl: Combine the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Cheese Sticks

  1. Roll each frozen cheese stick in the flour, tapping off extra.
  2. Dip it into the egg mixture.
  3. Coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well.
  4. For extra crunch and better sealing, dip it again in egg and then again in breadcrumbs.

This double-coating method is key to achieving a crisp exterior that protects the cheese during frying.

Place the coated sticks back on the tray and freeze for another 30–60 minutes.

Step 4: Fry the Cheese Sticks

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). The correct temperature ensures a crisp exterior without melting the cheese.
  2. Fry 3–4 cheese sticks at a time for 1–2 minutes, turning occasionally until golden and crispy.
  3. Remove the sticks using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cheese sticks immediately while the centers are soft and stretchy. Pair them with:

  • Warm marinara sauce
  • Ranch dressing
  • Garlic aioli
  • Spicy tomato sauce

Expert Tips for Perfect Cheese Sticks

  • Don’t skip the freezing step. It prevents cheese from leaking during frying.
  • Double breading improves both crunch and structure.
  • Maintain a steady oil temperature of 350°F for even frying.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for the crispiest coating.
  • Work in small batches to keep the oil temperature stable.

Make-Ahead and Storage

  • Freeze breaded, uncooked cheese sticks in a single layer. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag.
  • They keep well for up to 2 months.
  • Fry directly from frozen—no thawing needed.

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