Baked Mozzarella Sticks are crispy, cheesy bites that bring together gooey mozzarella cheese and a crunchy breadcrumb coating. These sticks are baked to golden perfection, giving you all the fun of mozzarella sticks without the mess of frying. They’re simple, tasty, and perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
I love making these because they’re so easy to throw together, and the smell of melting cheese in the oven always makes me smile. My favorite part is that you get that satisfying cheese pull with none of the grease from frying. I usually keep some marinara sauce on hand for dipping – it just feels right with these cheesy sticks.
These baked mozzarella sticks are great for sharing at parties or for a cozy night in. I like pairing them with a big salad or some fresh veggies to balance things out. Honestly, once you try them this way, you might not want to go back to the fried version. It’s a simple twist that makes snack time a little lighter but just as fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: String cheese works great for convenience, but you can cut a block of mozzarella into sticks if you prefer. Whole milk mozzarella melts nicely, giving that perfect gooey center.
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add flavor and crunch. If you don’t have them, mix plain panko with dried herbs like oregano, basil, and garlic powder.
Eggs & Flour: These help the coating stick. For an egg-free option, try using milk or a plant-based milk substitute, or a mixture of yogurt and water to dip the cheese before coating.
Marinara Sauce: This is a classic dipping choice, but ranch dressing or a spicy tomato salsa can be tasty alternatives.
How Do You Prevent Cheese from Leaking While Baking?
A big challenge with baked mozzarella sticks is keeping cheese inside the coating while baking. Here’s what helps keep things tidy:
- Double coating: Dip the sticks twice in both egg and breadcrumbs. This creates a thicker shell that holds the cheese better.
- Freezing before baking: Freeze the coated sticks for at least 30 minutes to firm up the coating. This tightens the crust and reduces melting mess.
- Watch baking time: Baking too long causes cheese to melt out. Around 10-12 minutes at 400°F usually gives a golden crust without leaks.
- Use good quality mozzarella: Whole milk cheese melts more predictably and stays creamy without turning watery.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I use it because it gives the mozzarella sticks plenty of space to bake evenly and get crispy.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – keeps the sticks from sticking and makes clean-up easier.
- Three shallow bowls – for coating the cheese sticks in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs; makes the process quick and clean.
- Wire rack (optional) – helps the sticks stay crispy by letting air circulate around them after baking.
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray – for browning the coating and making it crispy without frying.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mozzarella for pepper jack or provolone for a different flavor and spice level.
- Add grated Parmesan or Romano cheese into the breadcrumb mixture for a richer taste.
- Mix in herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme into the breadcrumbs to boost flavor.
- Serve with easy dips like ranch, honey mustard, or even a spicy marinara to change things up.
Baked Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 sticks of mozzarella cheese (string cheese or cut from block)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko mixed with Italian seasoning)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley flakes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Marinara sauce for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing and coating the mozzarella sticks takes about 15 minutes. You’ll then freeze them for at least 30 minutes before baking. Bake time is around 10-12 minutes. Overall, plan for about 1 hour to make these cheesy treats from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Oven and Bowls
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Set out three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with eggs whisked with milk, and one with a mix of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the Cheese Sticks
Take each mozzarella stick and roll it in the flour, shaking off extra. Dip it into the egg mixture, then roll it thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumbs. For extra crunch and to keep the cheese inside, repeat dipping the stick again into the egg mixture and breadcrumbs, creating a double coating.
3. Freeze Before Baking
Place the coated sticks on the prepared baking sheet and freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the coating stick better and prevents cheese from leaking out during baking.
4. Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Before baking, lightly spray the sticks with cooking or olive oil spray to help with browning. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the coating is golden and crispy. Watch closely to avoid any cheese leaks.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your hot, crispy mozzarella sticks immediately with a side of marinara sauce. Sprinkle a bit of dried parsley on the sauce for a nice touch. Enjoy the gooey melted cheese and crunchy outside!
Can I Use Frozen Mozzarella Sticks for This Recipe?
Yes, you can bake frozen mozzarella sticks directly from the freezer. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time and keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking or cheese leakage.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Mozzarella Sticks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to help keep the coating crispy.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can coat the mozzarella sticks and freeze them for up to a month before baking. Just bake straight from the freezer when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Use Instead of Marinara Sauce?
If you want to mix things up, try serving with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy ketchup. These dips complement the cheesy sticks wonderfully and add delicious variety.