Introduction
Crispy Baked Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are the ultimate snack or appetizer for cheese lovers. Perfectly golden on the outside with a gooey, stretchy mozzarella center, they’re a lighter alternative to deep-fried versions but just as satisfying. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and baked until crisp, these sticks are deliciously indulgent without being overly heavy.
They’re fantastic for parties, game nights, or even as a fun snack for kids and adults alike. Dip them in marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dip, and you’ll have a snack that disappears in minutes.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it combines comfort food indulgence with a healthier twist. Traditional mozzarella sticks are fried, but this baked version delivers the same crunch and cheesiness without the excess oil. They’re also very customizable—you can play with seasonings, use different cheeses, or even make them gluten-free.
Another reason I adore this recipe is the fun factor. Pulling apart a cheese stick and seeing that gooey cheese stretch is just irresistible—it makes snack time more exciting!
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
This recipe is a must-try because:
- Healthier alternative – baked instead of fried.
- Kid-friendly and party-friendly – universally loved by all ages.
- Make-ahead friendly – you can freeze before baking for quick snacks anytime.
- Crispy & gooey combo – the best of both textures in every bite.
If you love cheese, this dish will quickly become your go-to snack.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Freezing Time (before baking): 1 hour
- Baking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including freezing time)
Servings and Nutrition
- Servings: 12 mozzarella sticks (about 4 servings)
- Calories: ~220 per serving (3 sticks with dip)
Cuisine and Course
- Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired
- Course: Snack, Appetizer, Party Dish
Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks (individually wrapped)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano & basil)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
For Serving:
- 1 cup warm marinara sauce (for dipping)
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Prepare the Cheese
- Unwrap mozzarella sticks and cut them in half to make 24 pieces.
- Freeze them for at least 30 minutes to prevent cheese from melting too quickly.
- Set Up Dredging Station
- Place flour in one shallow bowl.
- Whisk eggs and milk in a second bowl.
- Combine breadcrumbs, panko, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
- Coat the Cheese Sticks
- Dip each frozen cheese stick into flour (shake off excess).
- Then dip into egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumb mixture.
- For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more.
- Freeze Again
- Place coated sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour before baking.
- Bake the Cheese Sticks
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Arrange cheese sticks in a single layer, spray tops lightly with cooking spray.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve Immediately
- Serve hot with marinara sauce or your favorite dip.
How to Serve
- Best served straight from the oven while gooey and hot.
- Pair with marinara sauce, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo.
- Great as a snack platter for parties with other finger foods.
Additional Tips
- Don’t skip freezing—they prevent cheese from oozing out while baking.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Spray lightly with oil before baking for a fried-like texture.
- Serve immediately for maximum gooeyness.
Variations
- Spicy Mozzarella Sticks: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumbs.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- Cheese Variations: Try cheddar, pepper jack, or Colby jack string cheese.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing (Unbaked): After coating, freeze on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Store up to 2 months. Bake from frozen (add 2–3 extra minutes).
- Storage (Baked): Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer for crispiness.
Special Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Shallow bowls for dredging
- Freezer space
Conclusion
Crispy Baked Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are a fun, cheesy, and satisfying snack that’s lighter than fried versions but just as irresistible. With their crunchy coating and gooey melted center, they’re perfect for parties, family movie nights, or any time you crave comfort food. Easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep handy for all occasions.
Crispy Baked Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
Description
Crispy Baked Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are the ultimate snack or appetizer for cheese lovers. Perfectly golden on the outside with a gooey, stretchy mozzarella center, they’re a lighter alternative to deep-fried versions but just as satisfying
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cheese : Unwrap mozzarella sticks and cut them in half to make 24 pieces.Freeze them for at least 30 minutes to prevent cheese from melting too quickly.
-
Set Up Dredging Station : Place flour in one shallow bowl.Whisk eggs and milk in a second bowl.Combine breadcrumbs, panko, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
-
Coat the Cheese Sticks : Dip each frozen cheese stick into flour (shake off excess).Then dip into egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumb mixture.For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more.
-
Freeze Again : Place coated sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour before baking.
-
Bake the Cheese Sticks : Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.Arrange cheese sticks in a single layer, spray tops lightly with cooking spray.Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
-
Serve Immediately : Serve hot with marinara sauce or your favorite dip.
