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Herb-Infused Mozzarella Sticks

These homemade mozzarella sticks feature a secret herb-infused breadcrumb crust that adds fragrant, savory notes to a classic snack. The process involves coating cheese sticks in seasoned breadcrumbs, frying until golden and crispy, resulting in a gooey, cheesy interior with a crunchy exterior. Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a flavorful treat, they offer a satisfying combination of textures and aromatic herbs in every bite.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 26 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces block of fresh mozzarella cut into 1/2 inch thick sticks
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs lightly toasted for extra flavor
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano adds fragrant herbaceous notes
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil complements oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for savory depth
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
  • 2 cups vegetable oil for frying, heated to 180°C (350°F)

Equipment

  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • 3 shallow bowls or plates (for flour, egg, breadcrumbs)
  • Fork or whisk (for beating eggs)
  • Deep pan or pot (for frying)
  • Cooking thermometer (for oil temperature)
  • Tongs or slotted spoon
  • Plate for resting

Method
 

  1. Slice the mozzarella into evenly sized sticks about 1/2 inch thick, keeping them refrigerated so they stay firm and manageable.
  2. Set up your breading station by placing flour in a shallow dish, beaten eggs in a second dish, and a mixture of toasted panko breadcrumbs combined with oregano, basil, and garlic powder in a third.
  3. Dip each mozzarella stick into the flour, ensuring an even coat, then into the beaten eggs, and finally press into the herbed breadcrumbs, coating thoroughly. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps, then chill the coated sticks in the fridge for 15 minutes.
  4. Pour vegetable oil into a deep pan, enough to submerge the sticks, and heat to 180°C (350°F). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature for perfect frying.
  5. Carefully lower a few breaded mozzarella sticks into the hot oil using tongs, frying in batches to prevent overcrowding. Fry for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they turn golden brown and crispy, with the cheese bubbling inside.
  6. Use a slotted spoon to lift the fried sticks out of the oil, then place them on a paper towel-lined rack or plate to drain excess oil and settle for a minute.
  7. Repeat frying with remaining sticks, maintaining oil temperature. Once all are fried, serve immediately with marinara sauce or your favorite dip for maximum gooeyness and crunch.

Notes

Chilling the coated mozzarella sticks before frying helps prevent cheese from leaking out and ensures a crispy crust. Using panko breadcrumbs results in an extra crunchy exterior, but regular breadcrumbs work well too. Serve hot for the best gooey, crispy experience.