Homemade Gluten Free Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
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New Year’s Eve always looks different for us. Some years we are just getting back from a massive travel extravaganza, some years we are simply slowing down from all the Christmas shenanigans. Corey always has an opinion regarding the menu and this year he wanted fried mozzarella sticks. For New Year’s we just picked up some already made and frozen sticks to fry, but they didn’t pass the test.
So for Valentine’s Day I decided our appetizer would be GF fried mozz sticks! What could be more romantic than mozzarella sticks?!? They were a HIT! The boys have already asked for more, and sense they were so easy to make, I might just appease them. Plus, they really enjoyed helping with this recipe and that just makes me so happy.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Completely gluten-free without sacrificing texture – These mozzarella sticks fry up perfectly crispy on the outside while staying gooey and stretchy on the inside.
- Better than restaurant versions – The double breading creates a thick, crunchy coating that holds the cheese in place and gives you that classic appetizer experience at home.
- Simple ingredients – Everything used is easy to find and gluten-free friendly.
- Make-ahead friendly – You can bread and freeze these ahead of time, making them perfect for parties, game days, or quick snacks.
- Customizable flavors – Easily add extra herbs, parmesan, or spice to match your taste preferences.
- Family and crowd approved – Mozzarella sticks are always a hit with both kids and adults.
- Make a Double Batch — you can easily double this batch for a larger crowd and since the sticks fry in 1 minute, they will still be ready in no time!
Ingredients:
1 cup white rice flour
White rice flour creates a light, crisp coating and serves as the first dredging layer that helps the egg wash stick evenly to the cheese. It has a neutral flavor, allowing the seasoning and cheesy center to shine. For best results, use finely milled rice flour to avoid a gritty texture. You could substitute with gluten-free flour.
1 teaspoon dried basil
Dried basil adds a subtle herby flavor that complements the mozzarella and gives the coating a classic Italian-inspired taste. Crushing the basil slightly between your fingers before mixing helps release more flavor.
½ teaspoon fresh ground pepper
Freshly ground black pepper adds mild heat and depth to balance the richness of the fried cheese. Freshly cracked pepper offers stronger aroma and flavor compared to pre-ground pepper.
½ teaspoon garlic granules
Garlic granules provide savory flavor throughout the breading. They distribute more evenly than fresh garlic and help create a classic pizzeria-style mozzarella stick taste without adding moisture to the coating. You can substitute garlic powder.
½ teaspoon salt
Salt enhances all the flavors in the breading and balances the richness of the cheese. Fine sea salt or table salt works best for even distribution.
2 large eggs
Eggs act as the binding agent that helps the breadcrumb coating adhere to the mozzarella. Beating the eggs until smooth ensures an even coating and helps create a sturdy crust that prevents cheese from leaking during frying.
1 cup dried gluten-free breadcrumbs
Gluten-free breadcrumbs create the crispy outer layer. I like using my homemade bread crumbs (but without any seasonings) Use finely ground breadcrumbs for even coverage and better adhesion. Seasoned gluten-free breadcrumbs can also be used for additional flavor. For extra crunch, you can combine breadcrumbs with a small amount of crushed gluten-free crackers or gluten-free panko.
1 (8-ounce) mozzarella cheese block
A block of low-moisture, whole milk mozzarella works best because it holds its shape while melting into that classic stretchy center. Cutting the block into evenly sized sticks ensures consistent cooking and prevents premature melting. Avoid fresh mozzarella packed in water, as it contains too much moisture and may cause the coating to break apart. You could also use mozzarella cheese sticks, but I find the cheese more “melty” with a mozzarella block.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breading Station
Line up three shallow plates or bowls to create an easy dredging station. Keeping everything organized helps ensure each mozzarella stick is evenly coated.
- Plate 1 (Flour Mixture):
Add the white rice flour, dried basil, fresh ground pepper, garlic granules, and salt. Whisk thoroughly until the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This seasoned flour layer helps the egg coating stick while adding flavor to every bite. - Plate 2 (Egg Wash):
Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl and whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy. A well-mixed egg wash helps create a strong coating that keeps the cheese from leaking while frying. - Plate 3 (Breadcrumbs):
Pour the gluten-free breadcrumbs into a third shallow dish. If the breadcrumbs appear coarse, you can lightly crush them with your hands for better coverage and adhesion.
2. Cut the Mozzarella
Slice the mozzarella block into 12 evenly sized sticks. Try to keep the sticks uniform in thickness so they cook evenly and melt at the same rate.
3. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks
Working with one stick at a time, follow this double-coating process to create a sturdy, crispy coating:
- Roll the mozzarella stick in the flour mixture, coating the entire cheese stick completely. Gently shake off any excess flour.
- Dip the floured stick into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off.
- Roll the stick back into the flour mixture for a second coating. This extra layer helps prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
- Dip the stick into the egg wash again.
- Finally, roll the stick in the gluten-free breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs stick and fully coat the cheese.
Place each coated stick onto a cooling rack as you finish them. Using a rack instead of a plate prevents the coating from becoming soggy.
4. Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks
Transfer the coated mozzarella sticks to the freezer and chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Freezing is a crucial step that helps the coating set and keeps the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
5. Heat the Oil
When ready to cook, pour olive oil into a heavy-bottom skillet or deep pan until it reaches about 1½ to 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 325°F to 350°F. Using a thermometer helps maintain the correct temperature and prevents greasy or undercooked mozzarella sticks.
6. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks
Carefully place a few frozen mozzarella sticks into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for about 30 seconds on the first side, or until golden brown.
- Gently flip using tongs and fry for another 30 seconds until evenly crisp and golden.
Work in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
7. Drain and Cool
Remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil and place them back on the cooling rack. Place a paper towel underneath the rack to catch excess oil drippings while keeping the coating crisp.
Allow the sticks to cool for a few minutes before serving, as the cheese inside will be very hot.
Perfect Pairings:
- Classic Marinara Sauce
The bright tomato flavor balances the richness of fried cheese and adds that traditional mozzarella stick experience. - Fresh Italian or Garden Salad
A crisp salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and helps balance the heaviness of fried appetizers. - Ranch or Garlic Aioli
Creamy dips add a cool, tangy contrast and are always crowd favorites. - Spicy Arrabbiata or Hot Honey
If you love sweet heat, these add a fun gourmet twist. - Game Day Appetizer Spread
Serve alongside wings, sliders, or fries for a crowd-pleasing snack table. - Drink Pairings
- Sparkling water or lemonade for a refreshing contrast
- Gluten-free beer or light cocktails for entertaining
- Iced tea or soda for casual gatherings
Tips and Tricks:
- Freeze Before Frying
This is the most important step. Freezing solidifies the cheese and helps prevent it from melting too quickly and leaking out while frying. - Double Coat for Extra Protection
The flour ? egg ? flour ? egg ? breadcrumb process creates a thicker crust that seals in the cheese and gives maximum crunch. I’m telling ya, the double dip process is everything. - Use Low-Moisture Mozzarella
Block mozzarella holds its shape much better than fresh mozzarella packed in water, which can cause soggy breading and leaks. Mozzarella string cheese could work as well. - Monitor Oil Temperature
Keep oil between 325–350°F.- Too hot: coating burns before cheese melts.
- Too cool: sticks absorb oil and become greasy.
- Fry in Small Batches
Overcrowding lowers oil temperature and prevents even crisping. - Season Every Layer
Seasoning the flour ensures the flavor is built into the coating rather than just sitting on the outside. - Freeze Extras for Later
After breading, freeze sticks on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry straight from frozen when ready to serve. - Serve Immediately
Mozzarella sticks are best hot and fresh when the cheese is perfectly melted and stretchy. Store leftovers in airtight container. Reheat in oven or toaster oven.Â
Check out the recipe card below to make these delicious homemade mozzarella sticks!
Homemade Gluten Free Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice flour
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp fresh ground pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic granules
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup dried GF breadcrumbs
- 1 8 ounce mozzarella cheese block
Instructions
Prepare the Breading Station
- Line up three shallow plates or bowls to create an easy dredging station. Keeping everything organized helps ensure each mozzarella stick is evenly coated.
- Plate 1 (Flour Mixture): Add the white rice flour, dried basil, fresh ground pepper, garlic granules, and salt. Whisk thoroughly until the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This seasoned flour layer helps the egg coating stick while adding flavor to every bite.
- Plate 2 (Egg Wash): Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl and whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy. A well-mixed egg wash helps create a strong coating that keeps the cheese from leaking while frying.
- Plate 3 (Breadcrumbs): Pour the gluten-free breadcrumbs into a third shallow dish. If the breadcrumbs appear coarse, you can lightly crush them with your hands for better coverage and adhesion.
Cut the Mozzarella
- Slice the mozzarella block into 12 evenly sized sticks. Try to keep the sticks uniform in thickness so they cook evenly and melt at the same rate.
Coat the Mozzarella Sticks
- Working with one stick at a time, follow this double-coating process to create a sturdy, crispy coating:
- Roll the mozzarella stick in the flour mixture, coating the entire cheese stick completely. Gently shake off any excess flour.
- Dip the floured stick into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off.
- Roll the stick back into the flour mixture for a second coating. This extra layer helps prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
- Dip the stick into the egg wash again.
- Finally, roll the stick in the gluten-free breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs stick and fully coat the cheese.
- Place each coated stick onto a cooling rack as you finish them. Using a rack instead of a plate prevents the coating from becoming soggy.
Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks
- Transfer the coated mozzarella sticks to the freezer and chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Freezing is a crucial step that helps the coating set and keeps the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
Heat the Oil
- When ready to cook, pour olive oil into a heavy-bottom skillet or deep pan until it reaches about 1½ to 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 325°F to 350°F. Using a thermometer helps maintain the correct temperature and prevents greasy or undercooked mozzarella sticks.
Fry the Mozzarella Sticks
- Carefully place a few frozen mozzarella sticks into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for about 30 seconds on the first side, or until golden brown.
- Gently flip using tongs and fry for another 30 seconds until evenly crisp and golden.
- Work in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
Drain and Cool
- Remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil and place them back on the cooling rack. Place a paper towel underneath the rack to catch excess oil drippings while keeping the coating crisp.
- Allow the sticks to cool for a few minutes before serving, as the cheese inside will be very hot.
These Homemade Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate crispy, cheesy appetizer that tastes even better than your favorite restaurant version. Made with a perfectly seasoned gluten-free breading and filled with melty, stretchy mozzarella, this recipe proves that gluten-free comfort food can still deliver incredible flavor and texture.
Using simple pantry ingredients, these mozzarella sticks are double-coated for extra crunch and fried until golden brown. The coating locks in the cheese, creating that classic crispy exterior with a gooey, cheesy goodness everyone loves. They are easy to prepare ahead of time and freeze beautifully, making them perfect for parties, game days, family movie nights, or whenever a snack craving hits.
Serve them with marinara, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that both gluten-free and non-gluten-free eaters will devour. This recipe is approachable, reliable, and guaranteed to become a go-to favorite for entertaining or indulging in a fun homemade treat.
