Crispy & Melty Wonton Mozzarella Sticks: Your New Favorite Easy Appetizer!
Get ready to impress with these incredibly simple yet utterly delicious crispy wonton mozzarella sticks! Perfectly tucked inside a golden, crunchy wrapper coated in panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan, these delightful cheese sticks offer an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun snack, or simply craving cheesy goodness, this recipe promises a satisfying bite every single time.
Why You’ll Love These Wonton Mozzarella Sticks
These aren’t just any cheese sticks; they’re a revelation in convenience and flavor. Crafted from readily available egg roll or wonton wrappers and classic string cheese, this recipe elevates a simple concept to an extraordinary appetizer. The secret lies in the double-layered crispness: first, the thin, shatter-crisp wrapper, and then the additional exterior coating of seasoned panko breadcrumbs and savory Parmesan cheese. This dynamic duo delivers a crunch that is deeply satisfying, perfectly contrasting with the gooey, melted mozzarella center. Serve these golden-fried beauties on any occasion – from casual game nights to elegant gatherings – with a side of warm marinara or zesty pizza sauce, and watch them disappear!
Unlike traditional mozzarella sticks that can sometimes be heavy, these wonton variations are delightfully light yet incredibly flavorful. Their quick preparation time makes them a fantastic last-minute snack, and the simple rolling technique ensures success even for novice cooks. The combination of easy-to-find ingredients, minimal fuss, and guaranteed crowd-pleasing results makes this recipe a true winner in any kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for Crispy Wonton Mozzarella Sticks
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these irresistible bites. All measurements, specific ingredient details, and comprehensive instructions are provided in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Ingredient Deep Dive & Smart Substitution Suggestions
Let’s take a closer look at the key components of this recipe and how you can adapt them to your pantry or preferences.
MOZZARELLA STRING CHEESE: String cheese is the star here for a reason – its convenient stick shape and ideal meltiness make it perfect for wrapping. Its mild flavor also allows the other ingredients to shine. While mozzarella is traditional, you could experiment with other semi-hard, meltable cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack, though they might not achieve the same iconic “cheese pull.” For best results, use full-fat string cheese.
WRAPPER – You have a choice between egg roll wrappers and wonton wrappers, and both work beautifully. We opted for egg roll wrappers in this recipe because they are generally larger than wonton wrappers. This extra size makes it significantly easier to fully enclose a whole string cheese stick, ensuring no melty cheese escapes during frying. Egg roll wrappers typically measure around 6-7 inches square. If your wrappers are smaller, or if you prefer using wonton wrappers, simply cut your string cheese sticks in half to fit. Just remember that smaller sticks might cook a bit faster when deep-fried, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. Wonton wrappers are slightly thicker, which might result in a slightly chewier texture and a minute or two longer frying time compared to the thinner, crispier egg roll wrappers.
COATING – The panko breadcrumb coating is not just optional; it’s highly recommended! Panko breadcrumbs are Japanese-style breadcrumbs known for their coarser, flakier texture, which results in an incredibly light and extra-crispy crust when fried. This additional layer of crunch is what truly makes these taste similar to a classic, gourmet mozzarella stick. If you’re short on panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the texture won’t be quite as airy. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. If you prefer a simpler stick, you can easily omit this coating and fry the wonton cheese sticks as is, though you’ll miss out on that signature crunchy exterior.
GRATED PARMESAN CHEESE – Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, umami depth to the panko coating. Pre-grated Parmesan works well too. If you don’t have Parmesan, another hard, aged cheese like Pecorino Romano could be a flavorful substitute. For a dairy-free alternative, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can offer a cheesy flavor to the breading.
MINCED FRESH PARSLEY – This adds a touch of fresh herbaceousness and a pop of color to the coating. If fresh parsley isn’t available, dried parsley can be used (use about 1 teaspoon for every tablespoon of fresh). Other herbs like a pinch of dried oregano or Italian seasoning can also be incorporated for a different flavor profile.
LARGE EGG & WATER (EGG WASH) – The egg wash acts as the binder, helping the panko and Parmesan adhere to the wrappers. Whisking the egg with a tablespoon of water creates a thinner consistency, which ensures an even, light coating. Ensure all sides of the wrapped cheese sticks are thoroughly dipped.
FRYING OIL – You’ll need enough neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point for deep frying. Good options include vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. The amount needed will depend on the size of your skillet or fryer, but aim for about 2 inches of oil to fully submerge the sticks for even cooking.
How to Make Crispy Wonton Cheese Sticks: A Step-by-Step Guide
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to guide you through the process of making this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to access the printable version, complete with precise measurements and comprehensive instructions, located at the bottom of this post.
- **Prepare the Panko Coating**: In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced fresh parsley. Stir them together until well mixed. Then, spread this aromatic mixture evenly onto a plate or a shallow dish – this makes the coating process much easier.
- **Create the Egg Wash**: Using the same (now empty) bowl from the coating mixture, whisk together the large egg and 1 tablespoon of water. This creates a light egg wash that will help the panko coating adhere to the wrappers. Set aside.
- **Prepare the Wrappers**: Take each egg roll wrapper and carefully cut it in half, creating two smaller rectangular pieces. If using wonton wrappers, you might not need to cut them, but you may need to halve your string cheese. Ensure your workstation is ready for assembly.
- **Preheat the Oil**: Pour enough frying oil into a deep-sided skillet or Dutch oven to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Place it over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to preheat until an instant-read thermometer registers a steady temperature of 325°F (160°C). Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for crispy, non-greasy cheese sticks.
- **Wrap the Cheese Sticks**: While the oil is heating, begin assembling your cheese sticks. Place one string cheese stick onto the center of one of the egg roll wrapper halves. Roll the wrapper up about halfway. Before completing the roll, fold both open ends of the wrapper inward towards the cheese stick, like you’re wrapping a burrito. Dip your finger into the remaining water (from the 1/4 cup) and moisten the remaining edges of the egg roll wrapper. Continue rolling tightly and gently press the wet edge to seal the wrapper securely around the cheese. This prevents any cheese from leaking out during frying. Repeat this process for all of your cheese sticks.
- **Bread the Sticks**: Take each wrapped cheese stick and roll it in the prepared egg wash, ensuring all surfaces are fully coated. Immediately transfer the egg-washed stick to the plate with the panko and Parmesan mixture. Roll it around until it’s completely coated, gently pressing the crumbs to help them adhere. Once breaded, place the stick onto a wire rack set over a baking sheet to catch any drips. Continue this breading process with all remaining cheese sticks.
- **Deep Fry to Golden Perfection**: Using tongs, carefully add a few breaded cheese sticks to the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to greasy sticks. Allow them to cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy. Then, gently turn them over and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until both sides are beautifully golden. The cheese inside should be perfectly melted.
- **Serve Immediately**: Once cooked, remove the golden-brown wonton cheese sticks from the oil and place them back on the wire rack to drain any excess oil. Serve them immediately while they are hot and the cheese is wonderfully melty. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for an unforgettable appetizer experience.
Mastering Your Wonton Cheese Sticks: Expert Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
While both can technically be used, we highly recommend egg roll wrappers for this recipe. Egg roll wrappers are typically larger than wonton wrappers, making it significantly easier to fully wrap and seal an entire string cheese stick without any cheese peeking through. If you opt for wonton wrappers, which are generally thicker and smaller, you’ll likely need to cut your string cheese sticks in half to ensure they fit properly. Keep in mind that wonton wrappers, being thicker, might require a slightly longer frying time (by about a minute or two) to achieve the same level of crispness. Always ensure your wrappers are fully sealed to prevent cheese leakage.
Absolutely, and it’s actually our preferred method! A deep fryer excels at maintaining a consistent oil temperature, which is paramount for achieving perfectly golden brown and crispy cheese sticks without them becoming greasy. If you have access to a deep fryer, we highly recommend utilizing it for the best possible results.
The ideal oil temperature is 325°F (160°C). Using an instant-read thermometer is key to maintaining this temperature. If the oil is too cool, the cheese sticks will absorb too much oil, becoming greasy and soggy. If the oil is too hot, the wrappers will brown too quickly, potentially burning before the cheese inside has a chance to fully melt and become gooey.
Yes, you can! While deep frying yields the crispiest results, baking or air frying are excellent alternatives for a slightly lighter option.
- For Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with cooking spray. Bake for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- For Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the breaded cheese sticks with cooking spray. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Air fry for 6-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy. Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model.
Always monitor them closely to prevent burning.
You can prepare the cheese sticks up to the point of breading and freeze them. Arrange the breaded, uncooked sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time. For already cooked cheese sticks, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5-8 minutes, until heated through and crispy. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make them soggy.
Delicious Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations
These wonton cheese sticks are best served piping hot, straight from the fryer, ensuring that glorious cheese pull! Here are some fantastic ways to enjoy them:
- Classic Dipping Sauces: The go-to choice is always a warm bowl of our homemade pizza sauce or a rich marinara sauce. For those who prefer a creamy option, a cool ranch dressing makes a wonderful contrast.
- Beyond the Basics: Don’t limit yourself! Sweet chili sauce offers a delightful sweet and spicy kick, honey mustard provides a tangy sweetness, and even a garlic aioli can elevate the flavor profile. For a bolder taste, try them with a side of buffalo sauce.
- Pepperoni Pizzazz: To add a savory, slightly spicy twist, roll a thin slice of pepperoni around the string cheese stick before wrapping it in the egg roll or wonton wrapper. This creates a mini “pizza” cheese stick that’s absolutely divine.
- Herbaceous Twist: Consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or dried oregano to your panko breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of Italian-inspired flavor.
- Spice it Up: For those who love a bit of heat, you can sprinkle a tiny amount of red pepper flakes into the panko coating or even tuck a very thin sliver of jalapeño with the cheese before wrapping.
More Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed these crispy cheese sticks, be sure to explore more of our fantastic appetizer recipes:
- Pizza Bites
- Pigs In A Blanket
- Fried Chicken Wings
- Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers
- Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
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Wonton Cheese Sticks
IMPORTANT – For additional tips, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions, please refer to the detailed sections within the blog post!
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Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella “string cheese” sticks
- 6 egg roll wrappers
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 Tablespoons minced fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup water divided
Things You’ll Need
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Large deep sided skillet or deep fryer
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Vinyl gloves
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Tongs
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Wire cooling rack
Before You Begin
- Egg roll wrappers vary in size. The wrappers we used were wide enough to accommodate a whole stick of string cheese and big enough to roll two each. If your wrappers are smaller, or if you choose to use wonton wrappers, you might need to cut your string cheese sticks in half. Smaller sticks may also fry faster, so keep an eye on them.
- Wonton wrappers are generally thicker than egg roll wrappers, which might mean they take a minute or two longer to fry to a golden crisp. Either type will work, but egg roll wrappers typically offer an easier wrapping experience for full-sized string cheese due to their larger dimensions.
- For the most consistent and perfectly crispy results, a deep fryer is highly recommended. It maintains oil temperature much better than a skillet, which helps prevent greasy cheese sticks.
- Serve these delicious wonton cheese sticks warm, fresh from the fryer, with your choice of dipping sauces. Our homemade pizza sauce, classic marinara, or a creamy ranch dressing are all excellent choices.
- For a delightful variation, try wrapping a thin slice of pepperoni around the cheese stick before rolling it in the egg roll or wonton wrapper. This adds a fantastic savory kick!
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, combine panko bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and parsley. Spread mixture evenly onto a plate or shallow dish.
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Using the same (now empty) bowl, whisk the egg and 1 tablespoon of the water together to create an egg wash.
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Cut each egg roll wrapper in half.
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Add enough frying oil to a deep sided skillet (or deep fryer) to come about 2-inches up the sides. Preheat over medium-high heat until an instant-read thermometer reaches 325°F (160°C).
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While oil is preheating, place a cheese stick onto one of the egg roll wrapper halves. Roll up halfway, then tuck both open ends inward. Dip your finger into the remaining water and run it along the edges of the wrapper to moisten. Continue rolling and gently press the wet end to seal it completely. Repeat for all cheese sticks.
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Roll each wrapped cheese stick in the egg wash, ensuring all sides are coated. Then, roll the egg-washed stick in the panko mixture until fully coated, gently pressing to adhere the crumbs. Move breaded stick to a wire rack and continue with the remaining sticks.
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Using tongs, carefully add a few breaded sticks to the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding. Allow to cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, then turn sticks over and cook an additional 2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
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Remove to a wire rack to drain excess oil and serve warm immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.