Name: Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 oz string cheese sticks (mozzarella and cheddar); 2 cups Panko bread crumbs (plain or regular Italian bread crumbs); 1 teaspoon Italian Herbs seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 large egg; 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature); Oil for frying (about 2 inches deep in pan, such as vegetable or canola oil)

If you're craving a crunchy, cheesy snack that's just bursting with flavor, this Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks Recipe will totally hit the spot. It's a classic that'll have you frying up gooey, golden sticks of mozzarella and cheddar in no time—perfect for game day or casual get-togethers.

The image shows a white square dish filled with many golden brown crispy sticks that have a crunchy coating, each stick looking long and evenly breaded. In the middle of the dish, there is a small white round bowl filled with smooth, bright red ketchup topped with small green herb pieces. The dish is lined with white parchment paper and scattered with small green herbs on top of the sticks. The background is a white marble surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I honestly can’t get enough of these fried cheese sticks. Every time I make them, my kitchen fills with that irresistible aroma of smoky paprika and garlic, and the crispy crust paired with melty cheese makes it a total crowd-pleaser.

Simple and Quick: Ready in just 20 minutes, so snack cravings don’t have to wait.
Double Coating: The buttermilk and breadcrumb dip combo creates that perfect crispy crust.
Flavor-Packed: Italian herbs, smoked paprika, and garlic powder give these cheese sticks a delicious twist.
Fun to Dip: Pair with marinara or your favorite sauce for an irresistible appetizer or party snack.

Ingredients & Why They Work

When you’re out shopping, grab good-quality string cheese — I like a combo of mozzarella and cheddar for that perfect gooey flavor. The crispy crust is all about the Panko crumbs and that blend of herbs and spices, so don’t skip those. And trusty buttermilk helps everything stick together while adding a subtle tang.

Flat lay of fresh mozzarella and cheddar string cheese sticks arranged neatly, a small white bowl filled with golden Panko bread crumbs mixed with Italian herbs, a small white bowl containing vibrant smoked paprika powder, another small white bowl with fine garlic powder, one large whole uncracked brown egg, a small white bowl holding creamy buttermilk, a pinch of ground black pepper and salt sprinkled artfully on the surface, all placed symmetrically on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

String Cheese Sticks: Mozzarella and cheddar provide the perfect melt and flavor combo.
Panko Bread Crumbs: These create an exceptionally light, crunchy texture for the coating.
Italian Herbs Seasoning: Adds an aromatic and savory touch to the breading.
Smoked Paprika: Brings a subtle smoky flavor that makes the crust extra special.
Garlic Powder: For a hint of savory warmth.
Salt and Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the coating and wet mixture perfectly.
Large Egg: Helps bind the coating layers so they stick well while frying.
Buttermilk: Adds moisture, flavors the cheese sticks, and helps with adhesion.
Oil for Frying: Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for frying the sticks to golden perfection.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks Recipe is how easy it is to customize! Whether you want to swap cheeses, add spices, or adjust for dietary preferences, there’s plenty of room to make it your own delicious creation.

Cheese Swap: I’ve tried using pepper jack instead of mozzarella for a spicy kick. The melty cheese combined with the seasoned crust is irresistible and adds a nice heat to the appetizer.
Gluten-Free Option: Using gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs worked wonderfully for my gluten-sensitive friends. Just make sure the seasoning blend you use is also gluten-free to keep it safe and tasty.
Herb Variations: Sometimes I like to toss in fresh chopped basil or parsley to the breadcrumb mix for a fresh, herby twist that pairs beautifully with marinara sauce.
Seasonal Twist: For fall gatherings, adding a pinch of ground cinnamon and nutmeg to the coating gives these cheese sticks a cozy, slightly sweet flare. It’s unexpected but surprisingly delightful!
Vegan Adaptation: For a vegan version, you can try firm vegan cheese sticks and substitute the egg with a flax egg or aquafaba, plus use dairy-free milk instead of buttermilk. Results may vary, but it’s worth experimenting!

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks Recipe

A close-up image shows two fingers pulling apart a long, golden brown breaded stick filled with melted white cheese stretching in the middle. The stick has a crispy, textured coating with small green garnish pieces on top. In the background, several similar breaded sticks lay on a white plate next to a white bowl filled with bright red dipping sauce, all placed on a white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Heat the Oil to the Perfect Temperature

Begin by filling a deep frying pan or skillet with about 2 inches of your preferred frying oil—vegetable or canola work great—and set it over high heat. Use a reliable deep-frying thermometer clipped to the side of the pan to monitor the temperature. Wait until it reaches a steady 350 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for getting that golden crispy crust without overcooking the cheese inside.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Wet Mixture

In a shallow bowl, whisk one large egg together with 1 cup of room-temperature buttermilk, along with ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper. This savory wet mixture helps the breadcrumbs stick beautifully and adds a touch of tang from the buttermilk.

Step 3: Prepare the Flavorful Dry Coating

In a separate shallow bowl, combine 2 cups of Panko bread crumbs with 1 teaspoon each of Italian Herbs seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Add the same ¼ teaspoon salt and black pepper to balance the flavors. Mix everything thoroughly to create a well-seasoned, fragrant crust for the cheese sticks.

Step 4: Double Coat Each Cheese Stick

Unwrap each string cheese stick carefully. Dip it first into the buttermilk-egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off so the coating won’t be soggy. Next, press it evenly in the breadcrumb mixture to fully cover every inch. For an ultra-crispy outer layer, quickly dip the coated stick back into the wet mixture and then once again into the breadcrumbs for a double coating. This double dip ensures the perfect crunch and minimizes any melting cheese leaks during frying.

Step 5: Fry Until Golden Brown

Gently place the coated cheese sticks into the hot oil without crowding the pan. Fry each stick for about 20-30 seconds on one side until the breadcrumb crust turns golden brown, then carefully flip and fry the other side for another 20-30 seconds. The entire frying process should take approximately 1 minute per batch. Keeping the oil at a steady 350 degrees Fahrenheit prevents the cheese from leaking out and helps maintain that crispy shell.

Step 6: Drain and Serve Immediately

Remove the fried cheese sticks from the oil with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to quickly drain excess oil. Serve these golden, melty delights right away with your favorite marinara or dipping sauce for the best experience. If making a large batch, keep cooked sticks warm in a 200 degrees Fahrenheit oven on a rack to hold crispiness while frying the rest.

Top Tip

These Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks are all about that perfect crunchy crust and melty cheesy center. A few simple tips will transform your fry game and keep those cheese sticks exactly how you want them—crispy outside and ooey-gooey inside!

Keep the Oil Temperature Steady: I can’t stress this enough—use a candy or deep-fry thermometer clipped to your pan to maintain the oil between 350°F and 360°F. This prevents soggy crusts or leaked cheese messes.
Freeze Before Breading: I learned that freezing the string cheese sticks for an hour before dipping makes a huge difference. It helps the cheese hold its shape during frying, keeping everything neat and delicious.
Double Dip for Crunch: My favorite trick is dipping the cheese sticks twice in the wet mixture and breadcrumbs. That double coating locks in the cheese and delivers maximum crispiness.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: I used to rush it and fry too many at once, but that made everything greasy and limp. Give each cheese stick some space to fry evenly and stay crispy.

How to Serve Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks Recipe

Inside a clear glass bowl, a woman's hand is using silver tongs to dip a long pale yellow stick into a layer of light brown, coarse crumbs. In the background, several similar pale yellow sticks lie flat on the white marbled surface. The crumbs have a rough texture with tiny pieces mixed throughout, covering the bowl's bottom and walls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a lovely pop of color and refreshing aroma to your plate. You can also dust with a little grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy touch. If you like a spicy kick, try serving with a dash of red pepper flakes on top.

Side Dishes

These classic Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks pair wonderfully with rich, tangy marinara sauce for dipping—always a crowd-pleaser! For more variety, serve alongside a fresh garden salad, crispy French fries, or even a platter of roasted veggies to balance out the indulgence. A chilled glass of soda or a light beer complements this American appetizer beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though they rarely last long!), place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to 2 days, but be prepared for a slight loss in crispiness.

Freezing

For best results, freeze the cheese sticks uncooked after breading. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment, freeze until firm (about an hour), then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. You can fry them straight from frozen later on—no need to thaw, just add a bit more frying time if needed.

Reheating

To revive leftover crispy fried cheese sticks, preheat your oven to 375°F and bake them on a wire rack over a baking sheet for about 8-10 minutes. This helps restore their crunch without making them soggy, unlike the microwave which tends to soften the coating.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! Mozzarella and cheddar are classic because they melt well and have great flavor, but you can experiment with other string cheeses or semi-soft cheeses. Just make sure they hold their shape and melt nicely without becoming too runny.

Why do my cheese sticks sometimes leak during frying?

Leaking usually happens if the cheese isn’t fully coated or if the oil temperature is too low, causing longer frying time. Make sure to double coat your cheese sticks and maintain the oil temperature around 350°F to 360°F for the best seal.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Baking is an option if you want a lighter version, but you’ll miss out on some of the crispy texture that frying delivers. If you bake, use a high temperature (around 425°F) and a wire rack to help keep them crisp, but keep in mind the cooking time will be longer.

How do I prevent my coating from falling off?

Ensuring each cheese stick is dipped properly and allowing excess wet and dry coating to drip off between steps helps the breadcrumbs stick better. Double coating also creates a stronger crust that holds up during frying.

Final Thoughts

Making Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks at home is such a satisfying and tasty experience. With just the right technique and a few helpful tips, you’ll achieve that golden crunch and gooey cheese combo every time. These cheesy bites aren’t just appetizers—they’re smiles on a plate, perfect for sharing with friends and family. So grab your favorite dipping sauce, heat up that oil, and enjoy the deliciousness you created!