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Close-up of crispy healthy mozzarella sticks with melted cheese and marinara dip in a modern kitchen

Healthy Mozzarella Sticks

Emily Wilson
Crispy on the outside and melty in the middle, these Healthy Mozzarella Sticks use simple pantry ingredients and string cheese for fuss-free prep. Fry, bake, or air fry for a lighter appetizer that kids and guests love.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Freezing Time 2 hours
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 16 pieces
Calories 100 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Sheet pan with parchment
  • Deep pot or Dutch oven
  • Thermometer
  • Tongs or slotted spoon
  • Air fryer (optional)
  • Oven and baking sheet (optional)

Ingredients
  

Mozzarella Sticks

  • 8 sticks Low-moisture mozzarella string cheese, halved Yields 16 pieces
  • 1/3 cup All-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups Italian breadcrumbs Use whole wheat for a lighter twist
  • 2 large Eggs Beaten with milk
  • 2 teaspoons Milk
  • 0.5 teaspoon Kosher salt Plus more to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
  • Oil for frying Heat to 350°F
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
  • 1 cup Marinara sauce For serving

Instructions
 

  • Set up a coating station: Place flour in one shallow bowl. Beat eggs with milk in a second bowl. In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs with salt and pepper.
  • Bread the cheese: Dredge each piece of string cheese in flour, tap off excess, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a second coat to prevent leaking.
  • Freeze: Arrange breaded sticks on a parchment-lined sheet pan and freeze until solid, at least 120 minutes. This helps the coating crisp before the cheese melts.
  • Cook your way: Fry in 350°F oil for 2 to 3 minutes until golden. Bake at 400°F on a lined sheet for 8 to 10 minutes, turning once. Air fry at 390°F for 5 to 6 minutes until crisp.
  • Serve: Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot with marinara or your favorite dip.

Notes

For best results, avoid overcrowding the pot or basket. Keep oil at a steady 350°F, and cook from frozen to reduce cheese leakage. Whole wheat breadcrumbs add fiber without losing crunch. For gluten-free sticks, use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs and check your marinara label.
Nutrition Facts (per stick)
Calories: 100
Carbohydrates: 7 g
Protein: 6 g
Fat: 6 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Cholesterol: 25 mg
Sodium: 180 mg
Potassium: 40 mg
Fiber: 0.7 g
Sugar: 0.6 g
Vitamin A: 6% DV
Vitamin C: 1% DV
Calcium: 120 mg
Iron: 0.6 mg