These Irresistible Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are crispy, golden, and gooey on the inside. Baked instead of fried, they’re a lighter version of the classic appetizer—perfect for parties, game day, or anytime you’re craving cheesy comfort food with marinara dipping sauce!
12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Marinara sauce, for dipping
Cut mozzarella sticks in half to make 24 pieces.
In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dredge each cheese piece in flour, shaking off excess.
Dip into beaten eggs, coating evenly.
Roll in seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Place coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a second baking sheet with parchment.
Arrange frozen sticks on the prepared sheet.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs or double coat the sticks (egg + crumbs twice).
Can be air-fried at 375°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes as an alternative.
Freeze coated sticks up to 1 month for make-ahead convenience.
Find it online: http://maicook.com/irresistible-mozzarella-cheese-sticks/