Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks

If you’re a fan of cheesy, indulgent snacks, then get ready to fall in love. These Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks take the classic fried favorite to a whole new level by stuffing them with creamy, cheesy pizza-inspired goodness. Picture this: golden, crispy breadcrumbs on the outside, a soft, creamy filling with gooey mozzarella inside, and that irresistible aroma of garlic, oregano, and pepperoni wafting through your kitchen.

They’re perfect for game nights, movie nights, or any time you just want a snack that doubles as pure comfort food. And trust me—once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

Recipe Origin

Mozzarella sticks are a beloved appetizer in American cuisine, typically served with marinara sauce. This version adds a playful twist by turning them into pizza-flavored bites, stuffed with creamy cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and spicy pepperoni. The result is a fun, shareable snack that feels both familiar and excitingly new.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk for egg wash
• Spoon or piping bag for filling
• Tongs or slotted spoon for frying
• Paper towels for draining
• Small plates or bowls for breadcrumbs and egg wash

Why You’ll Love Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks

These aren’t just ordinary snacks—they’re little bites of happiness. Here’s why you’ll love them:

Crispy and Cheesy

The golden breadcrumb exterior gives way to a gooey, melty filling, creating a satisfying contrast in every bite.

Pizza Flavors in a Bite

Pepperoni, mozzarella, garlic, and oregano all come together to create that classic pizza taste you crave.

Fun and Shareable

Perfect for parties, family movie nights, or casual get-togethers. They’re sure to disappear fast!

Easy to Make

Straightforward steps and simple ingredients mean anyone can make these without stress.

Customizable

Swap out pepperoni for your favorite pizza toppings, add extra spices, or adjust cheese ratios to suit your taste.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Keep the filling cold before shaping to prevent it from oozing during frying.
2. Double-coat in breadcrumbs for maximum crispiness.
3. Use fresh oil at the right temperature (around 350°F/175°C) to achieve golden perfection without burning.
4. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep the sticks crisp.
5. Serve immediately for the best gooey cheese experience.

Ingredients in Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Cream Cheese: The creamy base that keeps the filling smooth and rich.

Pepperoni: Adds savory, slightly spicy flavor, giving the sticks a classic pizza taste.

Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that gooey, stringy cheese pull everyone loves.

Garlic and Oregano: Classic pizza seasonings that elevate the flavor of every bite.

Panko Breadcrumbs and Parmesan: Give the sticks a crisp, golden crust with a touch of extra cheesiness.

Egg Wash: Helps the breadcrumbs adhere and creates a beautiful fried coating.

Garnish: Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan add color and flavor for the finishing touch.

Instructions

Let’s dive into creating these irresistible snacks:

Prepare the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, diced pepperoni, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix until well combined and smooth.

Shape the Sticks:

Form the filling into sticks, roughly the size of traditional mozzarella sticks. Place them on a lined tray and chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to firm up.

Prepare the Coating:

Set up a breading station with panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper in one bowl, and an egg wash (eggs whisked with water) in another.

Bread the Sticks:

Dip each chilled cheese stick into the egg wash, then coat evenly in the seasoned breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, repeat this step for a double coating.

Fry to Golden Perfection:

Heat canola oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the sticks in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per batch. Remove with tongs and drain on paper towels.

Serve and Garnish:

Sprinkle with additional Parmesan and chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with pizza sauce or marinara for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8–10 sticks
Calories per serving: ~250–300 (depends on cheese and oil used)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 20–30 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
Total Time: 50–65 minutes

How to Serve Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks

• Classic Dipping: Serve with warm pizza sauce, marinara, or even garlic butter.
• Party Platter: Arrange on a plate with veggies and extra dipping sauces for sharing.
• Snack Time: Pair with a cold soda, iced tea, or a fun cocktail.
• Kid-Friendly: Serve alongside small sides like carrot sticks or apple slices.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: Shape and bread sticks, then freeze on a tray before frying. Fry directly from frozen when needed.
• Leftovers: Best enjoyed fresh. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes for crispiness.
• Freezing: Store in an airtight container or bag for up to 2 months.

Variations to Try

• Different Meats: Swap pepperoni for cooked sausage, ham, or bacon bits.
• Extra Cheese: Mix in cheddar or provolone for a multi-cheese experience.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling.
• Herbs: Experiment with basil, thyme, or Italian seasoning blends.

Additional Tips

• Chill the sticks before frying to prevent filling from melting out.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain crispiness.
• Double-coating breadcrumbs ensures a crunchy exterior.
• Serve immediately for the ultimate gooey, cheesy experience.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A1: Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Q2: Can I make them ahead of time?
A2: Shape and bread the sticks, then freeze. Fry or bake directly from frozen when needed.

Q3: Can I use different cheeses?
A3: Absolutely! Mix mozzarella with provolone, cheddar, or gouda for extra flavor.

Q4: Can I make them vegetarian?
A4: Yes, omit pepperoni and use vegetarian pizza toppings like olives or roasted veggies.

Q5: How do I prevent the cheese from leaking?
A5: Chill the sticks before frying and ensure a tight breadcrumb coating.

Q6: Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
A6: Yes, though panko gives a lighter, crispier texture.

Q7: Can I add herbs or spices to the coating?
A7: Yes, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or paprika add extra flavor.

Q8: Can I air-fry these?
A8: Yes, air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until crispy.

Q9: What dipping sauces work best?
A9: Marinara, pizza sauce, garlic butter, or ranch all pair wonderfully.

Q10: Can I make mini mozzarella sticks?
A10: Yes, simply form smaller sticks and adjust frying time slightly.

Conclusion

These Pepperoni Pizza Mozzarella Sticks are a golden, cheesy, and utterly addictive snack that brings all the flavors of pizza into a convenient, shareable bite. Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and bursting with pepperoni, mozzarella, and Italian seasonings, they’re perfect for any occasion—from casual movie nights to festive parties.

So grab your ingredients, heat up the oil, and prepare to indulge in cheesy, crispy bites of pure comfort food heaven. Every dip into pizza sauce is a little slice of joy!

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