Can I Make Cheese Sticks Without Deep Frying?
While frying will give you the best results, you can still make deliciously gooey cheese sticks using any of the methods below:
- Baked Cheese Sticks: Arrange the frozen cheese sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet, about one inch apart. Spray all over with cooking spray. With the rack in the top third, bake at 475°F for 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway. Bake until melted cheese begins to peek through the crust.
- Convection Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F, and follow the same instructions as the conventional oven, baking for 4-6 minutes instead.
- Air Fryer Cheese Sticks: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F, then air fry the cheese sticks for 4-5 minutes, turning halfway. Work in batches if needed to ensure that the hot air can circulate.
Make-Ahead
Homemade mozzarella cheese sticks freeze really well so you can cook up a batch when the craving hits.
- To Freeze: Arrange on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze for 2 hours, until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe zip-top bag, squeeze out the excess air, and freeze for up to 3 months. You can cook them straight from frozen.
- Reheating: To get the insides of your cooked mozzarella sticks gooey again, microwave them for 15-20 seconds, just until the cheese starts to peek through the crust.
If you’re looking for a fun appetizer or satisfying snack, we hope you’ll give these homemade mozzarella sticks a try!
