Name: Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 21 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup gluten-free flour or finely ground white rice flour (4 ounces; 113 grams); 1 teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup dried gluten-free bread crumbs (4 ounces; 113 grams); 2 large eggs; Vegetable oil or cooking spray (for frying or spraying); 12 pieces string cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 4 reviews

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If you’ve ever dreamed of a crunchy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside snack that’s perfect for sharing or sneaking bites of during your favorite movie night, this Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Crispy, cheesy, and completely gluten-free, these sticks bring together simple ingredients in a way that’s truly irresistible. From the golden crust seasoned with fragrant herbs to the melty mozzarella inside, every bite guarantees a satisfying pop of flavor without any gluten worries. Let me walk you through creating this comfort food classic with a gluten-free twist that you’ll want to make again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several white bowls and small clear glass bowls arranged on a white marbled surface. There is a large white bowl filled with light beige flour on the top left, and below it, another white bowl contains coarse golden breadcrumbs. In the center, a white bowl holds two white eggs. On the top right side, there are three small clear glass bowls arranged in a loose triangle, each with a different seasoning: one has a pale yellow powder, another is filled with white salt, and the third contains dried green herbs. Below these small bowls is another clear bowl with dark ground pepper. To the right of all the bowls, five sticks of pale yellow cheese are individually wrapped in plastic and laid side by side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but essential to making your gluten-free mozzarella sticks perfectly crispy and flavorful. Each one plays a role in building amazing texture, seasoning, and ensuring that the cheese melts just right without leaking.

Gluten-free flour or finely ground white rice flour: Provides a sturdy base coating to help the egg and crumbs stick, creating a crisp exterior.
Dried basil: Adds a fragrant herbal note that complements the mozzarella’s mild creaminess.
Freshly ground black pepper: Gives a subtle kick to balance the richness of the cheese.
Garlic powder: Infuses the coating with a gentle, mouthwatering aroma that’s just right.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings harmony to every bite.
Large eggs: Act as a glue between the layers of flour and breadcrumbs for a perfect crust.
Dried gluten-free bread crumbs: Deliver that satisfying crunch and help seal in the cheese.
String cheese: The star ingredient, providing that signature stretchy and melty cheese goodness.
Vegetable oil or cooking spray: For frying or crisping your sticks to golden perfection.

How to Make Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Coating Stations

Line up three plates or shallow dishes: one with your gluten-free flour seasoned with dried basil, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt; the second with whisked eggs; and the third with the gluten-free bread crumbs. This setup makes the dipping process smooth and helps ensure every stick is coated evenly, locking in flavor and crunch.

Step 2: Cut and Coat the Cheese Sticks

Slice each piece of string cheese in half so the sticks are bite-sized but still plenty cheesy. Start by rolling each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture—not just the sides but the ends, too—to prevent melting cheese from escaping. Then dip the floured stick into the eggs, followed by another round of flour, then egg again, and finally a generous roll in the bread crumbs. This double-dip method guarantees a thick, sturdy crust once cooked. Line the coated sticks on a baking sheet or plate and don’t forget to chill them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes; this chilling step is crucial to keep the cheese from oozing out when cooked.

Step 3: Fry or Air Fry Until Golden

For frying, heat about half an inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan until it’s sizzling hot—test by sprinkling a few bread crumbs in and listening for a sizzle. Fry six sticks at a time for about 30 seconds on each side, gently rolling them to get a nice even golden crust. Work quickly and watch carefully—if any cheese starts leaking, remove the sticks promptly to avoid overcooking. If you prefer a lighter option, preheat your air fryer to 350°F, spray the sticks lightly with oil, and cook them for 3 to 5 minutes, flipping halfway through for an evenly crisp result.

How to Serve Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

A white plate holds several golden brown, crispy fried sticks, each covered in a textured crunchy coating with small green herb flakes visible. One stick is shown being pulled apart by a woman's hand, revealing a stretchy, melted white cheese inside. Behind the sticks, there is a white ramekin filled with bright red chunky tomato sauce, sitting on a white marbled texture surface. The scene focuses closely on the cheese stick being stretched with warm, inviting colors and a soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a little sprinkle of Parmesan cheese take these mozzarella sticks up a notch visually and flavor-wise. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a fun little twist of heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese.

Side Dishes

Serve these sticks alongside your favorite dipping sauces—classic marinara, spicy ranch, or a tangy pesto aioli all work wonders. For a heartier meal vibe, pair them with a crisp green salad or sweet potato fries for a fabulous contrast of textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or fun gatherings, arrange your gluten-free mozzarella sticks in a festive platter with a colorful variety of dipping sauces in little bowls around them. You could also skewer a couple of sticks with cherry tomatoes and basil leaves for a playful appetizer, or wrap some cooked bacon around them before frying for a smoky, indulgent treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers—which is rare!—store them covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping them airtight helps preserve both their crunch and the mozzarella’s creamy texture so you enjoy them just as much the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the coated mozzarella sticks before cooking by placing them on a parchment-lined tray and freezing until firm. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. This way, you have quick snacks ready to fry or air fry whenever cravings hit!

Reheating

To revive your mozzarella sticks’ crispiness after storage or freezing, reheat them in an air fryer or toaster oven until they are warmed through and crunchy again. Avoid microwaving as this can make the crust soggy and less appetizing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for this Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks Recipe?

While mozzarella is classic for its stretchiness and mild flavor, you can experiment with other semi-hard cheeses like provolone or even cheddar. Just keep in mind that different cheeses melt differently, so results may vary.

Is it necessary to chill the mozzarella sticks before cooking?

Absolutely! Chilling solidifies the coatings and helps prevent the cheese from leaking out while frying or air frying. It’s a crucial step to keep those sticks intact and your cooking mess-free.

What kind of gluten-free breadcrumb works best?

Look for dried gluten-free breadcrumbs with a neutral flavor and light texture. Some brands use rice flour or corn-based crumbs which are perfect for getting that satisfying crunch without overpowering the cheese.

Can I bake these instead of frying or air frying?

Yes, you can bake them! Just preheat your oven to around 400°F, place the sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them so they turn golden without melting out the cheese.

Are these mozzarella sticks kid-friendly?

Definitely! The crispy coating and gooey cheese inside make them a huge hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, making them gluten-free means they’re safer for family members with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

I hope you have as much fun making this Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks Recipe as I do every time I crave a crispy, cheesy snack that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. It’s truly a comforting, crowd-pleasing treat that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you try these golden wonders, gluten-free mozzarella sticks will become a staple in your kitchen, bringing smiles and satisfied appetites all around!

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Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need