Golden-brown, cheesy sticks with a dual-cheese filling that stretches deliciously—Crispy Cheddar Mozzarella Sticks are perfect for parties, snacks, or game-day treats. These savory, crunchy bites combine the rich flavors of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese with a crispy, flavorful coating. Serve them with marinara sauce or ranch for a perfect dip, and enjoy the irresistible combination of melted cheese and crispy goodness in every bite!

Crispy Cheddar Mozzarella Sticks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love making Crispy Cheddar Mozzarella Sticks because they’re so easy to prepare, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella gives the perfect balance of sharpness and stretch, while the panko breadcrumb coating provides an extra crunch. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer or just craving a delicious snack, these cheese sticks will satisfy your cheesy cravings every time. Plus, the freezing step ensures that the cheese stays perfectly in place while frying!

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 3-inch sticks

  • 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 3-inch sticks

  • 2 large eggs

  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • Oil, for frying

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese

  1. Arrange equal cheddar and mozzarella sticks side by side to form cheese pairs.

Step 2: Set Up Dredging Stations

  1. Set up three bowls:

    • One with flour

    • One with beaten eggs

    • One with panko breadcrumbs, mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Dredge the Cheese Sticks

  1. Dredge each cheese pair in flour, dip into the egg, then coat thoroughly in the seasoned panko.

  2. For extra crispiness, repeat the dredging process by dipping in the egg and coating with panko again.

Step 4: Freeze the Cheese Sticks

  1. Place the coated sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to prevent the cheese from oozing during frying.

Step 5: Fry the Cheese Sticks

  1. Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Fry the frozen cheese sticks in batches for about 1–2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

  3. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sticks to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve the crispy cheese sticks immediately with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping. Enjoy the melted cheese and crunch!

Notes

  • Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or provolone for a fun twist.

  • Make-Ahead: These cheese sticks can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Simply fry them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to serve.

  • Air Fryer Option: For a healthier option, try air-frying the cheese sticks at 375°F for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

Servings and Timing

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes (+ freeze time)

  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes

  • Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes (including freezing)

  • Servings: ~16 sticks

  • Kcal: ~250 kcal per stick

Variations

  • Spicy Cheese Sticks: Add some cayenne pepper or jalapeño slices to the cheese mixture for an extra kick.

  • Cheese Stuffed Sticks: For a cheesy surprise, stuff each stick with some cream cheese or a slice of jalapeño.

Storage and Reheating

  • Storage: Keep any leftover cheese sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or in the air fryer for 4-5 minutes to regain that crispy texture.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these cheese sticks ahead of time and freeze them for up to 2 weeks. Fry them directly from the freezer for the best results.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Of course! You can experiment with different cheese combinations like mozzarella and gouda or cheddar and pepper jack for a new flavor profile.

Conclusion

These Crispy Cheddar Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate indulgence—crispy on the outside, melty and cheesy on the inside. Perfect for parties, game days, or whenever you’re craving a quick snack, they’re easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, and enjoy the perfect balance of cheesy goodness and crunch!

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Crispy Cheddar Mozzarella Sticks

Crispy Cheddar Mozzarella Sticks


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  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes (including freezing)
  • Yield: 16 sticks

Description

Golden-brown, cheesy sticks with a dual-cheese filling that stretches deliciously—perfect for parties, snacks, or game-day treats.


Ingredients

8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 3-inch sticks

8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 3-inch sticks

2 large eggs

2 cups panko breadcrumbs

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup all-purpose flour

Oil, for frying


Instructions

Arrange equal cheddar and mozzarella sticks side by side to form cheese pairs.

Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Dredge each cheese pair in flour, dip into egg, then coat thoroughly in seasoned panko. For extra crispiness, repeat egg + panko dredging.

Place coated sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to prevent oozing.

Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry frozen cheese sticks in batches for about 1–2 minutes, until golden brown.

Use a slotted spoon to transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serve immediately with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes (+ freeze time)
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes

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