The Ultimate Party Snack: Cheez-It Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

There are few things in life more satisfying than pulling apart a mozzarella stick and watching that perfect, gooey cheese stretch between your fingers. For this project, our team at Downes Media had a blast bringing a playful twist to a classic comfort food: Cheez-It Crusted Mozzarella Sticks. Instead of the usual bread crumbs, we went bold with crushed Cheez-It crackers, and let me tell you—these golden, crunchy sticks are next-level good.

Working with Food Stylist Michael McMurtrey and Photographer David Berryhill on this shoot was pure fun. Michael brought his signature creativity, making sure every stick had that irresistible, cheesy pull, while David captured the textures and color so vividly you can almost hear the crunch through the screen. As always, it takes a great team to make food look as good as it tastes, and this one was especially rewarding.

We created this recipe and imagery for Ingles Markets, and that made the day even more special. Ingles is more than just a grocery store—it’s a community staple across the Southeastern United States. With locations in multiple states, they make it easy for families to find fresh, quality ingredients, and they’ve long been known for their generosity in giving back to local communities through food donations and outreach programs. It’s an honor to create recipes that not only celebrate good food but also highlight a company that cares so much about the people it serves.

These mozzarella sticks are perfect for parties, game nights, or even a quick snack with the family. They’re kid-approved, adult-approved, and guaranteed to disappear from the plate in minutes. You can fry them for that classic crunch or pop them in the air fryer for a lighter option—the Cheez-It coating works beautifully either way.

So next time you’re craving something fun, cheesy, and just a little nostalgic, give these a try. And don’t forget the warm marinara dipping sauce—because some things in life are simply meant to be enjoyed together.

Cheez-It Crusted Mozzarella Sticks

Ingredients:

• 1 block Laura Lynn Mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks

• 1 cup flour, seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 2 cups Cheez-It crackers, finely crushed

• Peanut oil, for frying (or use an air fryer)

• 1 jar Ragu Pasta Sauce, for dipping
  

Instructions:

1. Prep the Cheese:Cut the block of mozzarella into even sticks. Place them on a tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes (this helps prevent cheese from melting too quickly when frying).
   

2. Set Up Breading Station:

   • Place seasoned flour in one bowl.

   • Beat eggs in a second bowl.

   • Pour crushed Cheez-It crumbs into a third bowl.
     

3. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks:

   • Roll each cheese stick in flour, coating evenly.

   • Dip into beaten egg, making sure all sides are covered.

   • Roll in crushed Cheez-It crumbs, pressing gently to coat well.

   • For extra crunch, repeat the egg and crumb coating once more.
     

4. Fry or Air Fry:

   • Frying Method: Heat peanut oil in a deep pan to 350°F. Fry cheese sticks in small batches for 2–3 minutes, until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain.

   • Air Fryer Method: Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Spray coated cheese sticks with cooking spray and air fry for 6–7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
     

5. Serve: Plate the golden, gooey mozzarella sticks and serve immediately with warm Ragu Pasta Sauce for dipping.