Gooey, stretchy cheese coated in crispy, golden brown seasoned breading is the ultimate comfort food snack. Dunk homemade cheese sticks in your favorite sauce, and you’re all set!

This easy recipe is made using literally sticks of string cheese – resulting in the perfect crunchy-creamy texture. 

If you’re in the mood for a gooey mozzarella stick, forget about the frozen sticks from the grocery store and make your own. 

It’s an easy appetizer and a great recipe to share with family and friends.  The crispy coating with the melty cheese will have you hooked from the first bite in this delicious mozzarella stick recipe! 

I’ve been making these homemade mozzarella cheese sticks for years – and they’re seriously the best. Sure to be a recipe to keep in the recipe box! 

You can make them in small batches as an easy way to have a snack, or make more for a fun appetizer for a party. It’s the perfect finger food that never disappoints! 

Breaded mozzarella sticks are loaded with the best cheese and are one of my favorite things to bite into! 

And dare I say that they just might be my favorite appetizer, too? The entire cooking process to make this homemade mozzarella sticks recipe is a breeze – give it a try! 

Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

All you need are cheese sticks, Italian breadcrumbs, and a handful of pantry staples to create the best mozzarella sticks right in your own kitchen.

Looking for more homemade versions of your favorite frozen appetizers? You can never go wrong with a big platter of buffalo wings!

Try some crispy eggrolls with a Southwestern twist, or combine two popular flavors to make jalapeno popper taquitos or these air fryer goat cheese balls.

Tips for Making the Best Mozzarella Sticks

• Load up on flavor. Italian herb breadcrumbs come already seasoned, but you can always add more! 
  Or, combine 1 tablespoon dried Italian season with 1 cup of plain breadcrumbs to make your own.
  
• Add some heat.A shake or two of dried red pepper flakes adds a kick to the breading.
  
• Watch the temperature. It’s crucial for the oil to be hot enough, or your fried Italian cheese sticks won’t get crispy and brown. 
  
  Also, allow the temperature to recover between batches so they cook evenly.
  
• Don’t forget to drain! Place a wire rack inside a baking sheet to catch oil drips as your homemade mozzarella sticks cool. Or, lay the sticks in a single layer on a large plate lined with a paper towel.
  
• Feeding a crowd? Double or triple the mozzarella stick recipe as needed, working in batches until all of them are fried. 
  
  You can keep earlier batches warm in a low temp oven or serve them up as you go.

Serving Suggestions

You can’t go wrong with marinara or creamy ranch, so why not serve both? Add honey mustard for the perfect trio of sauce selections.

Pair these fried cheese sticks with more of your favorite party appetizers like fried zucchini sticks or enjoy them alone as a tasty snack! 

They also make a delicious side to a classic meal of spaghetti and meatballs.

Fried Cheese Sticks FAQ

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Easy Appetizer Recipes

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Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Recipe (Breaded Cheese)

Homemade mozzarella sticks are easy to make and taste even better than frozen or takeout versions. Make this fried cheese recipe in 30 minutes!

Course Snack

Cuisine American, Italian

Method Stovetop

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 12 cheese sticks

Calories 158cal

Author Donna Elick

Equipment

• 4 quart stock pot
• cooking thermometer
• fine mesh strainer
• serving bowl

Ingredients

• Oil for frying
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 12 mozzarella cheese sticks

Instructions

• Add 2-3 inches of oil to a deep-frying pan or pot and heat it over medium heat or until it reaches 265 degrees Fahrenheit.
• In the meantime, add the flour to a shallow bowl then add the salt and pepper and stir to combine.
• In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and water together.
• Finally, in a separate shallow bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
• Dredge the cheese sticks one at a time in the flour then dip them in the egg mixture then coat them in the breadcrumbs and set them on a plate or cooling rack.
• Once the oil is ready, fry each of the cheese sticks in the oil for 2-3 minutes or until light and golden. Only add 3-4 cheese sticks at a time to not overcrowd the pan.
• Let them cool on a cooling rack or a plate fitted with a paper towel then serve with marinara sauce.

Notes

These cheese sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat them in a 375-degree oven for 5 minutes or until crispy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 158cal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 43mg | Sodium: 461mg | Sugar: 1g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 44mg | Iron: 1mg

Originally published December 2021, updated and republished October 2025

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for your support; it allows us to keep creating new recipes.

The post Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Recipe (Breaded Cheese) appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

TGI Fridays Mozzarella Sticks

There isn’t anything much better than fried cheese, am I right?! I already have quite a few fried mozzarella recipes — homemade mozzarella sticks, fried mozzarella, and air fryer mozzarella sticks —  but I haven’t shared the TGI Fridays mozzarella sticks yet!

Crispy, crunchy, and so flavorful, there’s a reason why these are one of their most popular appetizers!

The last time I tasted them I got to thinking… how are they this golden brown and perfect every single time?

And then I figured it out! They must add double the breading to get double the crunch.

When I tried it myself a few days later, I knew I got it right… and was able to replicate my favorite TGI Friday’s mozzarella sticks at home!!

All you need are some easy to find ingredients, some hot oil, and about 30 minutes of active time.

You will need to be patient while they freeze (more info on why I freeze the sticks before frying down below), but otherwise they’re super quick.

Put down the takeout menu and make homemade TGI Friday mozzarella sticks with this copycat recipe instead!

If you love TGI Friday’s Recipes, you’ll also love my TGI Friday’s Copycat Mac and Cheese Recipe!

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Mozzarella Cheese – When you’re doing your shopping, opt for a 1 pound block of mozzarella cheese.
  
  I don’t recommend using cheese sticks for this recipe as they won’t melt as well. 
  
• All-Purpose Flour & Eggs – For the batter. 
  
• Buttermilk – If you don’t have buttermilk at home. you can easily make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk.
  
  Let it sit for about 10 minutes before using.

Otherwise, whole milk would work for TGI Fridays mozzarella sticks too.

• Breadcrumbs – I typically use regular breadcrumbs, but you can use panko if you want a crunchier texture.

I also recommend adding some finely grated Parmesan cheese to whatever type you choose for an extra layer of flavor!

• Vegetable Oil – For frying. Regular vegetable oil is fine, or you can use canola oil instead.
  
• Seasonings – You’ll need garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
  
  Add them all to the breadcrumbs when you set up your dredging stations!
  
• Dipping Sauces – Choose your favorites! I always pair my TGI Friday mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce and garlic aioli. 

Tips and Tricks to Make Perfect TGI Friday’s Mozzarella Sticks

• Don’t skip the freezing step.

After the mozzarella sticks are breaded, make sure to freeze them for at least 2 hours.

This step is crucial — it helps them hold their shape and keeps the cheese from melting too quickly (or oozing out of the breading) when fried.

Give yourself enough time to let them chill!

• Don’t skip the double breading either!

After you’ve dredged the mozzarella in the flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture, turn right around and start over… at least with the egg and breadcrumbs! 

This double dipping method creates a thicker and crunchier crust, just like authentic TGI Fridays mozzarella sticks.

• The extra seasonings add extra flavor.

Don’t forget to add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the breadcrumbs before you start dredging the mozzarella. 

Seasoned breadcrumbs will add even more flavor to the final product. The herbs add a bit of color too.

As mentioned, you may also want to add some Parmesan cheese into the mix to double the cheesy flavor!

• Fry in batches.

You may be tempted to fry all of the mozzarella sticks at the same time. I’ve been there too!

But trust me, patience is a virtue — especially when it comes to deep frying. 

Overcrowding will cause the oil temperature to drop, which will give you greasy and/or soggy results.

Fry in small batches to allow each stick to cook evenly and crisp up nicely!

Prep Ahead

• Set up the dredging stations
• Cut the mozzarella into ½ inch sticks

Kitchen Tools You Will Need

• Shallow Bowls for dredging.
• Baking Sheets lined with Parchment Paper – Used for anything from freezing to cookies and roasting, a good baking pan will last for years.
• You can use a Deep Fryer, or a Large Skillet if you don’t have one. Just make sure you add enough oil to fully submerge the sticks!
• Use Tongs or a Slotted Spoon to carefully turn and remove the sticks from the hot oil.

Serving Suggestions 

These are best enjoyed immediately while the cheese is still hot and melty, just like TGI Fridays mozzarella sticks!

Remember to serve them with some marinara sauce and garlic aioli, or with your favorite dipping sauces.

To make it a meal, pair them with a side salad, steamed or roasted vegetables, and some cheesy breadsticks to sop up any extra marinara or aioli. 

And if you’re really in the mood for a feast, try them with this feta pasta bake with sausage!

Storing, Freezing, and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Try to eat them as soon as possible for the best texture.

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and then place the sticks on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake for 5-10 minutes or until crispy.

Don’t use you’re microwave as this will make the breading soggy.

My TGI Friday’s mozzarella sticks recipe also freezes beautifully! Simply bread them as instructed and keep them in the freezer for up to 1-2 months.

When ready to serve, you can fry them straight from frozen — no need to thaw!

TGI Friday Mozzarella Sticks FAQ

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Easy Copycat Appetizer Recipes

Crispy Cheese Bites (Applebee’s Copycat Recipe!)

Copycat Cheesecake Factory Buffalo Blasts

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe (Cheesecake Factory)

Blooming Onion (Outback Copycat)

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TGI Fridays Mozzarella Sticks (Copycat Recipe)

TGI Fridays Mozzarella Sticks are so easy to make! Bread the cheese, freeze, and fry, then serve my copycat recipe with your favorite sauce.

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Method Stovetop

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

freezer time 2 hours hours

Total Time 2 hours hours 30 minutes minutes

Servings 16 mozzarella sticks

Calories 177cal

Author Donna Elick

Equipment

• shallow bowls
• large pot
• slotted spoon

Ingredients

• 1 pound block of mozzarella cheese cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk or whole milk
• 2 cups plain breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• salt and pepper to taste
• vegetable oil for frying
• marinara sauce for dipping
• garlic aioli for dipping (optional)

Instructions

• Set up a breading station: Place the flour in one shallow dish. In another dish, whisk together the eggs and milk. In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
• Dredge each mozzarella stick first in the flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally roll in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each stick is fully coated. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating. This will create a thicker, crunchier crust.
• Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
• When ready to cook, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for about 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcook, as the cheese can burst out of the breading.
• Use a slotted spoon to remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil, and drain on paper towels.
• Serve hot with marinara sauce and/or garlic aioli for dipping, enjoy!

Notes

Freezing the breaded mozzarella sticks before frying is crucial. This helps them hold their shape and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly when fried.

These are best enjoyed immediately after frying while the cheese is hot and melty.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some finely grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 10 minutes.

The type of breadcrumbs you use can affect the texture of your mozzarella sticks. Panko breadcrumbs will give a crunchier texture, while regular breadcrumbs will give a more traditional texture.

If you don’t have a deep fryer, you can also fry these in a large skillet. Just ensure there’s enough oil to fully submerge the sticks.

Be careful when frying as the oil can splatter. Use long tongs or a slotted spoon to carefully turn and remove the sticks from the hot oil.

You can prepare these in advance and keep them in the freezer. When ready to serve, just fry them straight from the freezer. No need to thaw.

If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to get them crispy again. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the breading soggy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 177cal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 43mg | Sodium: 287mg | Sugar: 1g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 176mg | Iron: 1mg

Originally published May 2024

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post TGI Fridays Mozzarella Sticks (Copycat Recipe) appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.