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 (enough to fill a deep pan 2 inches deep)

There’s something so satisfying about biting into golden, crispy exterior that gives way to gooey, melty cheese inside. If you’re craving the ultimate snack, this Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks Recipe will hit just the right spot every time.

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 genuinely can’t get enough of these fried cheese sticks. They’re one of my go-to appetizers when friends come over — quick to whip up and deliciously addictive! I’m excited to share all my tips so you can nail them just like I do.

Melty, Oozy Center: Using a blend of mozzarella and cheddar string cheeses gives a perfect gooey cheese pull every bite.
Crunchy Coating: The double-dipped panko bread crumbs create a crispy crust that stays crunchy without sogging up quickly.
Simple & Quick: Ready in just 20 minutes, these sticks make for an easy appetizer or snack any day of the week.
Perfectly Seasoned: The blend of Italian herbs, smoked paprika, and garlic powder adds a subtle kick and aroma that pairs perfectly with marinara.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Choosing the right cheese and breading components makes all the difference when crafting crispy fried cheese sticks. I always recommend using fresh string cheeses and good-quality panko, plus seasoning to transform this simple snack into something special.

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 great meltability and flavor; freezing them beforehand helps keep shape while frying.
Panko Bread Crumbs: These add extra crunch compared to regular bread crumbs and hold up nicely when fried.
Italian Herbs Seasoning: Adds aromatic, Mediterranean undertones that complement the cheese beautifully.
Smoked Paprika: Gives a subtle smokiness and depth to the breading with just a hint of spice.
Garlic Powder: Infuses the crust with savory garlic flavor that’s classic for fried appetizers.
Salt & Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the bread crumbs to balance and enhance flavors.
Egg: Binds the wet mixture and helps the bread crumbs adhere tightly to the cheese sticks.
Buttermilk: Provides tanginess and moisture in the coating mix to flavor and tenderize the breading.
Oil for Frying: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point to ensure crispiness without burning.

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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 to your taste buds and occasion. Whether you want to kick up the spice factor or cater to dietary preferences, there’s a variation that can make this classic snack even more yours.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder to the breading mix for a smoky, spicy edge. I tried this once for a game day party, and everyone loved how the heat balanced with the gooey cheese inside!
Herb & Garlic Lover’s Version: Boost the garlic powder to 2 teaspoons and toss in fresh chopped parsley to the bread crumbs. It really brightens up the flavor and adds a fresh, vibrant note.
Cheese Swap: Feel free to experiment with different cheese sticks like pepper jack for a little zing or even a blend of mozzarella with a bit of sharp cheddar for a richer taste.
Gluten-Free Friendly: Use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep things crispy without gluten. This way, everyone can enjoy this appetizer without missing out.
Make It Vegan: Substitute string cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well, use a flax egg instead of a real egg, and swap buttermilk for almond or oat milk with a little lemon juice to curdle. This swap needs a bit more care to avoid leakage but can definitely work!

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

Start by filling a deep frying pan or skillet with about 2 inches of oil. Heat it over high heat until it reaches a temperature of roughly 350°F. You’ll know the oil is ready when it’s sizzling but not smoking – a reliable cooking thermometer is your best friend here! Keeping the oil steady between 350 and 360 degrees ensures a golden brown crust without burning or leaking cheese.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Mixture

In a shallow bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, 1 cup of room-temperature buttermilk, along with a ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper. This mixture will help the breading stick perfectly to the cheese sticks and add a nice tangy flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Breading

In a separate shallow bowl, combine 2 cups of Panko bread crumbs with 1 teaspoon Italian Herbs seasoning, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to lift those tasty herbs and spices. Mix it all thoroughly to get a uniform coating that crisps up beautifully when fried.

Step 4: Bread the Cheese Sticks

Unwrap your 16 oz of string cheese sticks (I love a combo of mozzarella and cheddar for ultimate cheesiness). Dip each stick first into the wet buttermilk mixture, letting excess drip back into the bowl. Then coat it generously with the bread crumbs mixture. For that irresistible double coating, quickly dip each stick once more into the buttermilk, then again into the bread crumbs. This layers on a crispy shell that holds up perfectly to frying.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Carefully place the breaded cheese sticks into the preheated oil in batches—don’t crowd the pan! Fry each batch for about 1 minute total, flipping after 20-30 seconds so both sides get that gorgeous golden brown crust. Watch closely to avoid overcooking, since any longer and the cheese can start leaking or drying out.

Step 6: Drain and Serve Immediately

Use a slotted spoon to remove the cheese sticks and set them briefly on paper towels to drain excess oil. For the crispiest result, serve these hot and fresh, paired with a bowl of homemade marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. If making extra, keep them warm on a baking rack in a 200°F oven while you finish frying the rest.

Top Tip

These tips are pure gold for anyone wanting to master this Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks Recipe and get that perfect crunch with melty cheese inside every time.

Keep Your Oil Temperature Consistent: Use a high-quality deep-frying thermometer clipped to your pan to maintain the oil between 350°F and 360°F. This keeps the cheese sticks crispy and prevents leaking or drying out.
Double Coat for Extra Crunch: >Borrowed from my own trial and error—dipping twice in wet mixture and bread crumbs helps create a sturdy crust that holds the cheese perfectly inside.
Freeze Before Breading: Pop your cheese sticks in the freezer for one hour before breading to keep them firm during frying. It really makes all the difference in preventing melty messes.
Fry in Batches and Keep Warm: Avoid crowding the pan to maintain crispiness. And while finishing up batches, keep cooked sticks warm on a rack in a 200°F oven to serve them hot and crunchy.

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

Brighten up your cheese sticks with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. A light dusting of grated Parmesan can add a savory, salty touch. If you like a bit of heat, try a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of spicy chili oil on the side.

Side Dishes

Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks pair wonderfully with classic tomato-based dips like marinara or spicy arrabbiata sauce. For variety, you can also serve them with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a tangy chipotle mayo. On the side, a fresh garden salad or crunchy veggie sticks balance the richness beautifully, and a bowl of homemade French fries or onion rings can turn this into a party-worthy snack feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though they rarely last long!), store them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb extra moisture. Keep refrigerated and consume within 2 days for best taste and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the breaded but uncooked cheese sticks by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freezing until solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, fry them straight from frozen, just adding a little extra time to cook through.

Reheating

To keep that crispy texture during reheating, avoid microwaving. Instead, warm cheese sticks in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes, or use an air fryer at the same temperature for about 5 minutes. This method refreshes their crunch without melting the cheese completely out.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of cheese besides mozzarella and cheddar?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar are classics for their meltiness and flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure the cheese sticks are firm enough to hold their shape when fried.

What’s the best oil to use for frying cheese sticks?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils handle the 350°F frying temperature well and won’t impart strong flavors that overpower the cheese sticks.

Why did my cheese sticks leak cheese while frying?

Leaking usually happens if the cheese sticks aren’t properly coated or if the oil is too hot or you fry them too long. Make sure to double coat the sticks thoroughly and keep the oil temperature steady between 350°F and 360°F. Fry quickly for about 1 minute total to avoid melting the cheese through the breading.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Baking is possible, but frying gives the crispiest, most authentic texture for this recipe. If you prefer baking, preheat to 425°F and bake on a wire rack for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway—but be aware the crust will be less crunchy and the cheese might not melt as evenly.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the joy of biting into these warm, golden Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks with their crunchy coating giving way to that irresistible gooey cheese inside. Whether you're whipping these up for a casual snack, a game day treat, or a fun gathering, this recipe brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Don’t be shy to customize the seasonings or dipping sauces to your liking—this classic is as versatile as it is delicious. Happy frying!