Two Classics Become One
Craving something cheesy crispy and wildly satisfying? These Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks are your next must-make snack. Loaded with gooey cheese and packed with bold pepperoni flavor every bite delivers that classic pizza magic in crunchy handheld form. Whether you’re entertaining friends or indulging solo this is finger food that feels like a full-on experience.
Why You’re Going to Love This Recipe
- It combines two classic comfort foods into one irresistible snack
- Crispy on the outside gooey and flavorful on the inside
- Great for parties game day or anytime cravings hit
- Make ahead and freeze for quick-fry convenience
- Pairs perfectly with pizza sauce for dipping
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling
Cream cheese creates a smooth creamy base
Mini or diced pepperoni adds bold meaty flavor
Shredded mozzarella brings that melty stretchy texture
Garlic oregano salt and pepper give it that classic pizzeria flair
Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness
For the Breading
Panko breadcrumbs deliver an extra crispy coating
Parmesan cheese boosts the flavor
Salt and black pepper round it out
For the Egg Wash
Eggs and water help the breadcrumbs stick
This double-dip method ensures a thick even crust
For Frying and Garnish
Canola oil for frying
Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan to finish
Pizza sauce for dipping
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks (WATCH HERE)
Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl mix together the cream cheese pepperoni mozzarella herbs and spices until fully combined. Spread the mixture onto a parchment-lined sheet pan and smooth it into an even layer. Freeze for a couple of hours until the mixture is firm and easy to cut.
Set Up Your Dredging Station
Mix your panko breadcrumbs Parmesan salt and pepper in one bowl. In another bowl whisk together your eggs and water for the egg wash.
Assemble and Fry
Once the filling is firm cut it into uniform sticks. Dip each piece in the egg wash then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat this step for a second coating pressing the breadcrumbs on firmly so they adhere.
Heat your oil to the right temperature and fry the sticks in batches until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve hot with a side of warm pizza sauce for dipping.
Make Ahead Tips
You can fully bread the sticks and freeze them until you’re ready to fry. No need to thaw just fry straight from frozen a little longer until golden and heated through.
Reheating Leftovers
Reheat in an air fryer or oven until crisp and warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep that crunchy coating intact.
Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients
- Canola oil for frying
- Pizza sauce for serving
Pepperoni Pizza Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 cup pepperoni mini or diced
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 tbsp parsley chopped
- 1 tsp garlic minced or paste
- 1 tsp oregano dried
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Seasoned Breadcrumbs
- 3 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Egg Wash
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp water
Garnish
- Parmesan cheese grated
- Parsley chopped
Instructions
Pepperoni Pizza Filling
- In a bowl, add all the ingredients listed under “Pepperoni Filling” and mix thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
- Press and spread it into an even layer.
- Place in the freezer for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Seasoned Breadcrumbs
- Mix together all ingredients listed under “Seasoned Breadcrumbs” and set aside.
Egg Wash
- Whisk together all ingredients listed under “Egg Wash” and set aside.
Assemble
- Heat a pot of canola oil to 350F.
- Once the pepperoni filling is firm, cut into equal pieces.
- Working in batches, dip each piece into the egg wash, then into the seasoned breadcrumbs, back into the egg wash, and finish with a final dredge in the breadcrumbs.
- Make sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto each piece to help them adhere.
- Once coated, fry for 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve immediately with a side of pizza sauce and enjoy!
Notes
If frying from frozen, cook for 5–6 minutes, or until golden brown.
