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.

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Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks

These Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks are everything you love about a slice of pizza turned into ooey gooey cheesy goodness wrapped in a crispy golden bite. Loaded with creamy mozzarella tangy pepperoni and Italian herbs they are bold nostalgic and completely irresistible. Whether you are hosting game night or just in the mood for something indulgent these fried sticks are guaranteed to steal the spotlight. Dip them in warm pizza sauce and savor that perfect pull because these are not your average mozzarella sticks.

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American, Italian

Keyword appetizers, mozzarella sticks, pizza

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Chill Time 1 hour hour

Author kingcooks

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

Note: If preparing ahead, you can freeze the breaded pieces until ready to fry.
If frying from frozen, cook for 5–6 minutes, or until golden brown.

A Recipe That’s Too Good to Share

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the elegance of crab dip with the indulgence of fried mozzarella, welcome to your new obsession. These Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks are cheesy, savory, and absolutely decadent. A creamy blend of lump and claw crab meat is folded into softened cream cheese, seasoned to perfection, and loaded with gooey mozzarella. Each piece is double dredged in crispy panko, then fried until golden and irresistible. The inside? Silky, melty, and packed with flavor. Dip them in a tangy homemade remoulade and prepare to be ruined for regular mozzarella sticks forever.

Why You’re Going to Love This Recipe

• Combines two crowd favorites into one crave-worthy bite
• Uses both lump and claw crab for incredible texture and flavor
• Cream cheese and mozzarella create an ultra-luxurious filling
• Double breaded for that satisfying crunch with every bite
• Easy to prep ahead and fry fresh when ready to serve
• Pairs perfectly with a creamy, zesty remoulade sauce

Jumbo Lump Crab Filling (WATCH HERE)

In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, cubed mozzarella, shallots, red bell pepper, parsley, chives, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, Old Bay, and black pepper. Once fully combined, gently fold in the lump crab meat so it stays intact.

Spread the mixture onto a parchment-lined sheet pan and press it into an even layer. Freeze for at least two hours until firm enough to slice cleanly.

Remoulade Sauce
While the filling chills, combine all the ingredients for the remoulade sauce in a bowl. Stir well and set aside. This sauce gets better as it sits, so feel free to make it ahead.

Seasoned Breadcrumbs
Mix panko breadcrumbs with salt and black pepper in a shallow dish and set aside.

Egg Wash
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until smooth.

Assemble
Once the crab filling is firm, slice it into equal pieces. Working one at a time, dip each piece into the egg wash, then the breadcrumbs, back into the egg wash, and again into the breadcrumbs for a double coating. Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto each piece so they adhere well.

Heat oil and fry the crab sticks in batches until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Drain briefly on paper towels and serve hot with the remoulade sauce.

Tips for Success

• Make sure the crab filling is completely frozen before cutting for clean edges
• Use a sharp knife or bench scraper for slicing the filling into sticks
• Double coating helps keep the filling from leaking while frying

Storage and Reheating
You can freeze the breaded crab sticks in a single layer on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to fry, you can cook them straight from frozen.

To fry from frozen: deep fry for five to six minutes until golden brown and hot in the center.

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven until warmed through and crisp again.

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Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks

If crab cakes and mozzarella sticks had a baby, this would be it. These Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks are stuffed with a rich, creamy blend of crab, herbs, and melty mozzarella, then double breaded for the ultimate golden crunch. Every bite gives you the delicate sweetness of fresh crab with a gooey cheese pull that hits all the right notes. Served hot and crispy with a tangy remoulade on the side, they’re perfect for parties, date nights, or whenever you’re in the mood to impress. Make a batch, fry them up, and watch them disappear.

Course Appetizer, Main Course, Snack

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, crab, crab cakes, mozzarella sticks

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Chill Time 2 hours hours

Servings 12

Author kingcooks

Ingredients

• Canola oil for frying

Jumbo Lump Crab Filling

• 16 oz cream cheese softened
• 8 oz lump crab meat
• 4 oz claw crab meat
• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella shredded
• 1/4 cup mozzarella cubed
• 1/4 cup shallot minced
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper minced
• 1 tbsp parsley freshly chopped
• 1 tbsp chives minced
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic paste or minced
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1 tsp black pepper

Seasoned Breadcrumbs

• 3 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

Egg Wash

• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp water

Remoulade Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayo
• 1 tsp parsley freshly chopped
• 1 tsp chives freshly chopped
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp Old Bay
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional

Instructions

Jumbo Lump Crab Filling

• In a bowl, add all the ingredients listed under “Jumbo Lump Crab Filling” EXCEPT the lump crab meat, and mix thoroughly.
• Once combined, gently fold in the lump crab meat.
• 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.

Remoulade Sauce

• Mix together all ingredients listed under “Remoulade Sauce” and set aside.

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 large pot of canola oil to 350F.
• Once the crab filling is firm, cut into equal pieces. You should get 6 large pieces or 12 medium sized 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 remoulade sauce and enjoy!

Notes

*Note: If preparing ahead, you can freeze the breaded pieces until ready to fry.*

*If frying from frozen, cook for 5–6 minutes, or until golden brown.*

Pair them with a creamy sweet chili sauce, and you’ve got a flavor-packed treat that’s crunchy, creamy, and just the right amount of tangy. Perfect for parties, game days, or whenever you’re craving a fun twist on classic comfort food.

Why You’re Going to Love This Recipe

• Perfectly crispy and creamy: Each bite combines the crunch of golden breading with a luscious, cheesy crab filling.

• Party-ready: Make these ahead of time and fry or air fry them just before serving.

• Versatile cooking options: Whether you prefer deep-frying or air frying, these sticks come out perfectly every time.

• Dipping heaven: The creamy sweet chili sauce adds a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the filling.

Ingredients

For the Crab Rangoon Filling

A combination of chopped crab delights, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, green onion, parsley, and seasonings creates the ultimate creamy filling.

For the Breading

Seasoned panko breadcrumbs add the perfect crunch.

For the Egg Wash

The egg wash ensures the breadcrumbs adhere firmly to each stick.

For the Creamy Sweet Chili Sauce

A tangy, creamy blend of sweet chili sauce, mayo, and soy sauce makes the ideal dipping sauce.

Instructions

Make the Crab Rangoon Filling

1. In a large bowl, mix all the filling ingredients until thoroughly combined.

2. Spread the mixture evenly on a parchment-lined sheet pan.

3. Freeze for at least two hours, or until firm enough to cut into sticks.

Make the Sweet Chili Sauce

1. Stir together all sauce ingredients until smooth.

2. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Bread the Mozzarella Sticks

1. In one bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with seasonings. In another, whisk the egg wash ingredients.

2. Once the filling is firm, cut it into sticks.

3. Dip each stick into the egg wash, coat with breadcrumbs, repeat the egg wash, and finish with a final breadcrumb coating.

Deep Fry Instructions

1. Heat oil to 350°F in a large pot.

2. Fry the sticks in batches for 4–5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

3. Serve immediately with the sweet chili sauce.

Air Fryer Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.

2. Spray the breaded sticks lightly with cooking oil.

3. Air fry in a single layer for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to retain crispiness.

• Freeze: After breading, place the sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

• Cook from frozen: Deep fry for 6–7 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

These Crab Rangoon Mozzarella Sticks are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Crispy, cheesy, and filled with savory crab goodness, they’ll leave everyone reaching for more. Whether you deep fry, air fry, or prep them ahead, one thing’s for sure—these sticks won’t last long!

Why You’re Going to Love This Recipe

• Bold and Spicy: These mozzarella sticks are not your average appetizer. The Nashville hot sauce brings a fiery kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy, melted cheese inside.
• Crispy Perfection: Double-breaded for an extra crispy outer layer, these mozzarella sticks have the perfect crunch that contrasts beautifully with the gooey cheese.
• Cool and Creamy Dip: The homemade buttermilk ranch dressing offers a refreshing balance to the heat, making each bite irresistible.
• Great for Entertaining: These mozzarella sticks are sure to impress your guests with their bold flavors and unique twist on a classic favorite.
• Easy to Make Ahead: You can prepare and freeze the mozzarella sticks in advance, making it easy to fry them up when you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients

For the Nashville Hot Sauce

• Unsalted butter, melted
• Cayenne pepper
• Brown sugar
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic, fresh minced or powdered
• Salt
• Pepper
• Honey (optional)

For the Buttermilk Ranch

• Mayo
• Sour cream
• Buttermilk
• Dried or fresh chives
• Lemon juice
• Dried or fresh parsley
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Pepper
• Sugar

For the Breading

• Breadcrumbs
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Oregano
• Pepper
• Salt

For the Mozzarella Sticks

• Mozzarella, cut into 3×2 inch pieces
• Egg
• Water
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

Nashville Hot Sauce

1. In a small pot over low heat, combine all the ingredients listed under “Nashville Hot Sauce.”
2. Continuously whisk the mixture until the butter melts completely.
3. Allow the sauce to simmer for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.

Buttermilk Ranch

1. In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients listed under “Buttermilk Ranch.”
2. Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
3. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Breading

1. In a separate bowl, mix together all the ingredients listed under “Breading” and set aside.

Assemble

1. Whisk together the egg and water to create a simple egg wash.
2. Dip each piece of mozzarella into the egg wash, then coat it in the seasoned breading.
3. Repeat the process, dipping the mozzarella back into the egg wash and then into the breading again. This double breading ensures an extra crispy outer crust.
4. Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Frying

1. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
2. Once the mozzarella sticks are solid, carefully slide them into the heated oil.
3. Fry until they turn golden brown, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Transfer the fried mozzarella sticks to a cooling rack to drain excess oil.

Final Touch

1. While the mozzarella sticks are still warm, brush them generously with the Nashville hot sauce.
2. Serve immediately with a side of the homemade buttermilk ranch dressing.

Storage Suggestions

These Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare them ahead of time and freeze the breaded sticks for up to two months. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry them straight from the freezer. The buttermilk ranch can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container. If you have any leftovers, store them in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain their crispiness.

Final Thoughts

These Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a game-changer for anyone who loves a little spice in their snacks. The combination of gooey cheese, crispy breading, and spicy hot sauce is nothing short of addictive. Paired with the cool, creamy buttermilk ranch, they create the perfect balance of heat and flavor. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next gathering or just craving something bold and delicious, these mozzarella sticks are sure to become a new favorite.

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Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

Get ready to turn up the heat with these Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks! Imagine the classic cheesy pull of mozzarella sticks, but with a fiery, crispy coating that packs a serious punch. These spicy, golden bites are paired with a cool, creamy homemade ranch dressing, making them the perfect appetizer or snack for those who love a little kick. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just craving something indulgent, these mozzarella sticks bring the best of bold flavor and comforting crunch.

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Keyword mozzarella sticks, nashville hot

Prep Time 1 minute minute

Cook Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Author kingcooks

Ingredients

• 1 lb mozzarella cut into 3×2 inch pieces
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp water
• Vegetable oil for frying

Breading

• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt

Nashville Hot Sauce

• 1/2 cup melted butter unsalted
• 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic fresh minced or powdered
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp honey optional

Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayo
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 tsp chives dried or fresh
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp parsley dried or fresh
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp sugar

Instructions

Nashville Hot Sauce

• In a small pot over low heat, add all ingredients listed under “Nashville Hot Sauce.” Continuously whisk until the butter melts and allow to simmer for 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

• In a bowl, add all ingredients listed under “Buttermilk Ranch Dressing” and mix until thoroughly combined. Set in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Breading

• In a bowl mix together all ingredients listed under “Breading” and set aside.

Assemble

• Whisk together egg and water to create a simple egg wash.
• Take the prepared mozzarella cheese and coat in the egg wash mixture. Then into the seasoned breading.
• Return to the egg wash and finally another dip into the breading. The double breading will insure an impeccable outter crust.
• Place on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and place in the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
• Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a pan over medium high heat. You want to reach a temperature of 350F.
• Once the mozzarella sticks are solid, gently slide them into the heated oil and fry until golden brown. This should take 2-3 minutes to achieve.
• When cooked, transfer to a cooling rack and brush on the Nashville hot sauce.
• Serve with a side of homemade ranch dressing and enjoy!