crispy mozzarella fries

Ingredients

12 mozzarella sticks or mozzarella cheese cut into thick fry-shaped strips

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 eggs

1 tablespoon milk

1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/4 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

Oil, for frying

For Serving

Marinara sauce

Garlic mayo or ranch dressing

Instructions

1. Cut the mozzarella into thick fry-shaped sticks. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Place the flour in one bowl. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
3. Coat each mozzarella stick in flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs.
4. For an extra-crispy coating, dip each stick into the egg again and coat it with breadcrumbs a second time.
5. Place the coated mozzarella fries on a tray and freeze for at least 1 hour. This helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during cooking.
6. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella fries in small batches for about 1–2 minutes, just until golden and crispy.
7. Remove immediately and place on a paper towel-lined plate.
8. Serve hot with warm marinara sauce, garlic mayo, or ranch dressing.

Air Fryer Method

Spray the frozen mozzarella fries lightly with oil. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 5–7 minutes, turning halfway through. Watch carefully so the cheese does not burst out.

Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings:

Calories: 390
Protein: 19 g
Carbohydrates: 27 g
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 690 mg
Cholesterol: 85 mg

Nutrition varies depending on the cheese, breadcrumbs, and cooking method.

Q&A

Q: Why do my mozzarella fries burst open?
A: They may not have been frozen long enough or the oil may be too hot. Double coating and freezing helps keep the cheese inside.

Q: Can I use regular mozzarella?
A: Yes. Cut a block of low-moisture mozzarella into thick sticks for the best results.

Q: Can I freeze them overnight?
A: Yes. They can be frozen overnight and cooked directly from frozen.

Q: Can I bake them?
A: Yes. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through.

Q: What breadcrumbs are best?
A: Panko breadcrumbs give the crispiest coating.

Q: Can I make them without frying?
A: Yes. The air fryer or oven works well and uses much less oil.

Q: What sauce goes best with mozzarella fries?
A: Marinara is classic, but garlic mayo, ranch, or spicy tomato sauce also work well.