Easy Homemade Cheese Sticks Recipe

why make this recipe

Making cheese sticks at home is easy and fun. They are perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a tasty snack. Homemade cheese sticks are fresh, gooey, and delicious. You can customize them to your liking, and they pair perfectly with marinara sauce or ranch dressing. Plus, who doesn’t love the crispy coating combined with warm, melted cheese?

how to make Easy Homemade Cheese Sticks

Ingredients:

• 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (or a block of mozzarella cut into 3–4 inch sticks)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1 1⁄2 cups breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping

Directions:

1. Start by setting up your breading station. In one bowl, place the flour; in the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk; and in the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each mozzarella stick first into the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
4. Fry the breaded cheese sticks in batches until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes on each side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

how to serve Easy Homemade Cheese Sticks

Serve your cheese sticks while they are still warm. Place them on a nice platter with a small bowl of marinara sauce or ranch dressing in the center for dipping. They are great for sharing and will be a hit with family and friends!

how to store Easy Homemade Cheese Sticks

If you have any leftover cheese sticks, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 2–3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot oven for a few minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as that will make them soggy.

tips to make Easy Homemade Cheese Sticks

• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• If you want spicier cheese sticks, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the cheese from leaking out.
• You can freeze the breaded sticks before frying. Just fry them frozen, adding an extra minute to cooking time.

variation

Feel free to try different cheeses! Cheddar, pepper jack, or a mix of different cheeses can add unique flavors. You can also experiment with the seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste.

FAQs

1. Can I bake the cheese sticks instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the cheese sticks on a baking sheet, and spray them lightly with cooking spray. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until golden and bubbling.

2. Are these cheese sticks gluten-free?
To make gluten-free cheese sticks, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. Be sure to check the labels for all ingredients.

3. Can I make these cheese sticks a day ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sticks a day ahead by breading them and storing them in the fridge. Fry them just before serving for the best results.