Crispy Cheddar Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

If you love the crispy, gooey goodness of mozzarella sticks, then this Crispy Cheddar Mozzarella Sticks Recipe is a must-try! These golden, crunchy cheese sticks are filled with the perfect combination of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese, offering a deliciously gooey center wrapped in a crispy, seasoned breadcrumb coating. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or party treat, these cheesy delights are sure to impress. The secret to achieving the perfect texture lies in double-dipping the cheese sticks before frying them, ensuring that the outer crust becomes perfectly crunchy while keeping the cheese inside beautifully melty. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a batch of crispy cheese sticks that are even better than what you get at your favorite restaurant. Ready to dig in? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Cheesy and Gooey

The combination of mozzarella and cheddar cheese gives these sticks an extra creamy and gooey center, making each bite a cheesy delight.

2. Perfectly Crispy

With a double-dip method in breadcrumbs and eggs, these sticks achieve the perfect crunchy outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the gooey cheese inside.

3. Easy to Make

Despite how impressive they look and taste, these crispy cheese sticks are surprisingly simple to make with just a few common ingredients.

4. Kid-Friendly

Kids love cheesy snacks, and these crispy cheese sticks are perfect for a family-friendly appetizer or after-school snack.

5. Versatile for Dipping

Pair these crispy cheese sticks with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or even spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick.

Ingredients

• Mozzarella cheese sticks (cut into halves or thirds depending on size)
• Cheddar cheese (shredded)
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Bread crumbs (panko or regular)
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Variations

• Cheese Variety: You can swap the mozzarella for other cheeses like provolone, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.
• Spicy Version: Add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture to give these cheese sticks a little heat.
• Baked Version: Instead of frying, you can bake the cheese sticks in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes for a healthier alternative.
• Seasoned Coating: Add Italian seasoning or dried herbs like oregano and basil to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese

Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks into halves or thirds, depending on the size you prefer. Make sure the cheese is cold before starting the breading process to prevent it from melting too quickly while frying.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Stations

In a shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a third shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt.

Step 3: Coat the Cheese Sticks

First, dip each cheese stick into the flour, ensuring it’s coated evenly. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks. For an extra-crispy crust, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps to double-coat the cheese sticks.

Step 4: Freeze the Cheese Sticks

Place the coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 30 minutes to help the breading set and prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.

Step 5: Fry the Cheese Sticks

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F or 175°C), fry the cheese sticks in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cheese sticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your crispy cheddar mozzarella sticks with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or even a tangy barbecue sauce. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Keep the Cheese Cold: Make sure the cheese sticks are cold before breading and freezing them. This helps prevent the cheese from oozing out during frying.
• Double Coat: For an extra crispy crust, don’t skip the second dip in the egg and breadcrumbs. This helps create a thicker, crunchier layer around the cheese.
• Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. Frying in batches ensures that each stick gets a chance to crisp up without lowering the oil temperature.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For a lighter, crunchier texture, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Freezer: When freezing the coated cheese sticks, make sure they’re in a single layer and not touching, as this will prevent them from sticking together.

How to Serve

These crispy cheddar mozzarella sticks are perfect on their own as a snack or appetizer. Serve them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy jalapeño dip for an added kick. Pair them with a refreshing salad or some fresh veggies to balance out the richness of the cheese. They also make a fun and indulgent side dish for burgers, sandwiches, or pizza.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover mozzarella sticks, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a hot oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until crispy again.

Freezing

You can freeze the cheese sticks before frying them. Once breaded, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat leftover cheese sticks, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. Avoid microwaving, as this can cause the cheese to become rubbery.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cheese sticks ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and freeze the breaded cheese sticks ahead of time. Just fry them when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I bake these instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the cheese sticks at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier alternative.

3. How do I keep the cheese from oozing out during frying?

Freezing the cheese sticks for at least 30 minutes before frying helps prevent the cheese from melting out during cooking.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

You can try using different cheeses like provolone or gouda for a different flavor, but mozzarella is the best choice for its melting properties.

5. Can I make these cheese sticks gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or a gluten-free breadcrumb mixture for a gluten-free version.

6. How can I make the coating spicier?

Add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture to give the cheese sticks an extra kick of spice.

7. Can I use a deep fryer instead of a skillet?

Yes, a deep fryer works well for frying these cheese sticks, as long as the oil is heated to the right temperature (350°F or 175°C).

8. Can I store these cheese sticks in the fridge?

Yes, you can store leftover cheese sticks in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container.

9. How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Make sure the cheese sticks are frozen before frying to help the breading stick better. Also, try not to overcrowd the frying pan.

10. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko provides a lighter, crunchier texture for a better result.

Conclusion

These Crispy Cheddar Mozzarella Sticks are an irresistible snack or appetizer that’s crispy on the outside and perfectly cheesy on the inside. Whether served with your favorite dipping sauces or enjoyed on their own, these homemade cheese sticks are sure to become a family favorite. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have a batch of golden, gooey cheese sticks that are even better than the ones you get at a restaurant. Don’t forget to freeze them ahead of time for the ultimate crispy and cheesy treat!

Print