Crispy Fresh Mozzarella Sticks or Steaks

This easy and delicious recipe for Crispy Fresh Mozzarella Sticks or Steaks makes a crunchy and flavorful snack or appetizer. With a golden cornflake crust and served with a tangy homemade basil spicy marinara sauce, it’s a perfect treat for cheese lovers!

Ingredients Needed:

• 3 balls fresh mozzarella or 1 package of mozzarella sticks
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 1/2 cup cornflakes crumbs
• 1 tsp salt (divided in two)
• 1 tsp black pepper (divided in two)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried parsley
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp ancho chile powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 cup flour

For Frying:

• Vegetable or Corn Oil

For Serving:

• Homemade Basil Spicy Marinara Sauce

How To Make Mozzarella Sticks

1. Prepare the Mozzarella: Cut fresh mozzarella into 1/2″ slices (if using mozzarella sticks, unwrap them). Set aside.
2. Prepare the Crumb Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine cornflake crumbs, half the salt, half the pepper, garlic powder, parsley, onion powder, oregano, basil, ancho chile powder, and paprika. Stir well to mix.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In another shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and water. Set aside.
4. Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a third shallow bowl, mix flour with the remaining salt and pepper.
5. Coat the Mozzarella: Coat each mozzarella piece in flour, then dip into the egg mixture. Coat in flour again and dip into the egg mixture one more time. Lastly, press the mozzarella into the cornflake crumbs, making sure it’s well coated. Repeat with the remaining mozzarella.
6. Fry the Mozzarella: Heat oil in a large pot to 350°F. Fry the mozzarella pieces for 3–4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.
7. Serve: Serve immediately with warmed Homemade Basil Spicy Marinara Sauce.

Recipe Tips

• Chill Mozzarella Before Coating: Cold mozzarella holds its shape better when frying. Put the mozzarella in the fridge for about 15 minutes before coating it to prevent it from melting too quickly in the oil.
• Double Coat for Extra Crispiness: Coat the mozzarella twice with flour and egg mixture before dipping in the crumbs. This helps create a thicker, crunchier crust that won’t leak cheese during frying.
• Keep the Oil Temperature Consistent: Make sure the oil stays at 350°F. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the cheese melts. If it’s too cold, the mozzarella will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Fry the mozzarella pieces in small batches. Overcrowding the pot lowers the oil temperature and results in uneven frying.

How To Store & Reheat Leftovers

Place any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheat leftovers in an oven at 350°F for about 8–10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g

Try More Turkuaz Kitchen Recipes:

• Black Bun Gourmet Burger
• Quesabirria Tacos
• Red Pepper Pesto Bread
• Crispy Potato Winter Pizza