Deep fried pizza sticks have a way of making any day feel like a party! I remember the first time I tried them at a local fair – that incredible crunch followed by the gooey, melted mozzarella was pure magic. They’re like little pockets of pure joy, a perfect blend of savory pizza flavors and that irresistible fried goodness. If you’ve ever wondered what makes them so incredibly addictive, it’s that perfect balance of a crispy exterior and a warm, cheesy center, often paired with a tangy dipping sauce. These fried pizza delights are so much fun to make and even more fun to eat. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Deep Fried Pizza Sticks
You’re going to adore making and eating these homemade fried pizza sticks! They’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser and surprisingly simple.
- Incredibly crispy exterior that gives way to gooey mozzarella.
- Perfectly seasoned dough that tastes just like your favorite pizza.
- A fun and interactive way to enjoy pizza flavors.
- These crispy pizza sticks are fantastic for parties or game nights.
- They make for addictive cheesy snacks that everyone will ask for.
- Customizable with your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni or olives.
- Quick to prepare and fry, making them ideal for weeknights.
- Dip them in marinara sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients for Homemade Fried Pizza Sticks
Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards creating these amazing deep fried pizza sticks. You’ll need about a pound of pizza dough, which you can grab from the grocery store or make from scratch. For that essential gooey center, you’ll want 8 to 10 mozzarella cheese sticks, or about a cup of shredded mozzarella if you prefer. If you’re feeling fancy, adding 1/2 cup of pepperoni slices is a great way to go. For the coating, we’ll use 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, two large eggs that have been beaten, and one cup of bread crumbs, Italian-style works wonderfully for extra flavor. Have your vegetable or canola oil ready for frying, and of course, your favorite marinara or pizza sauce for dipping these irresistible mozzarella pizza fries!
How to Make Deep Fried Pizza Sticks
Making these delicious deep fried pizza sticks is easier than you might think! It all starts with good quality pizza dough. This recipe is perfect for a quick appetizer or a fun snack, and I’ve found that following these steps ensures a fantastic result every time. Get ready to create some truly memorable fried pizza dough sticks!
Step 1: Prepare the Dough and Filling
First things first, let’s get our dough ready. Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. You want a nice, even rectangle. Then, cut the dough into strips. The width should be just enough to comfortably wrap around your mozzarella cheese sticks. If you’re adding pepperoni, place a mozzarella stick and a few pepperoni slices onto one end of a dough strip. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges together tightly. Make sure to seal them completely so none of that cheesy goodness escapes during frying!
Step 2: Breading the Pizza Sticks
Now, let’s get these ready for their golden bath. Set up three shallow dishes. Put your flour in the first, the beaten eggs in the second, and the breadcrumbs in the third. Take each sealed pizza stick and roll it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, roll it generously in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure they adhere well. This triple coating is key to achieving that super crispy texture we all love in deep fried pizza.
Step 3: Deep Frying to Perfection
It’s time for the magic! Heat your vegetable or canola oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). It’s important to maintain this temperature for the best results. Carefully place a few of the breaded pizza sticks into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and puffy. You’ll see that crust get wonderfully crispy. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain on a wire rack set over paper towels. This step ensures they stay wonderfully crunchy, making this an easy deep fried pizza sticks recipe.
Pro Tips for the Best Fried Pizza Sticks
Want to elevate your deep fried pizza sticks game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. These simple tips will help you achieve that perfect crunch and flavor every single time.
- Always double-coat your pizza sticks in the breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy exterior.
- Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature before frying; too low and they get greasy, too high and they burn before cooking through.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; cook in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even crisping.
- For added flavor, you can brush the dough with garlic butter before the breading stage.
- Letting them rest on a wire rack after frying helps keep the crust crisp.
What’s the secret to perfect crispy pizza sticks?
The secret to achieving those perfect crispy pizza sticks lies in a few key things: ensuring the dough is sealed tightly, using a good coating of breadcrumbs (double coating is best!), and maintaining the oil at a consistent 350°F (175°C) during frying. This combination guarantees that irresistible crunch.
Can I make deep fried pizza sticks ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare your deep fried pizza sticks ahead of time! Once they are assembled and breaded (but before frying), you can wrap them tightly and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Just make sure they are well-sealed to prevent drying out.
How do I avoid common mistakes with deep fried pizza?
A common mistake with deep fried pizza is not sealing the dough properly, leading to cheese leakage. Always pinch those edges firmly! Another pitfall is incorrect oil temperature; too low makes them greasy, so a thermometer is your best friend. Lastly, don’t rush the frying; give them enough time to become golden brown and fully cooked inside.
Best Ways to Serve Deep Fried Pizza Sticks
These delightful deep fried pizza sticks are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. They’re fantastic as standalone finger foods, but they truly shine when served with a variety of dipping sauces. Think rich marinara, creamy ranch, or even a spicy arrabbiata sauce. For a more substantial meal or a fun appetizer spread, consider pairing them with a fresh side salad or some crispy garlic bread. These make wonderful pizza stick appetizers that guests will rave about, especially during game nights or casual get-togethers.
Nutrition Facts for Deep Fried Pizza Sticks
When you’re enjoying these delicious deep fried pizza sticks, it’s good to have an idea of what you’re eating. Here’s a general breakdown per serving, keeping in mind that the exact numbers can change based on your dough, cheese, and any added toppings like pepperoni. These estimates help you understand the nutritional profile of these savory treats.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: Varies
- Saturated Fat: Varies
- Protein: Varies
- Carbohydrates: Varies
- Fiber: Varies
- Sugar: Varies
- Sodium: Varies
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Deep Fried Pizza Sticks
After you’ve enjoyed these amazing savory fried pizza snacks, you might wonder about storing any leftovers. It’s super simple! First, let them cool down completely before you try to store them. This is really important to prevent sogginess. Once they’re cool, place them in an airtight container. You can keep these delicious deep fried pizza sticks in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them even longer, they freeze beautifully! Wrap them well in plastic wrap, then in foil, and pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to reheat those fantastic fried pizza delights, the oven or an air fryer is your best bet to keep them nice and crispy. Skip the microwave, as it tends to make the crust soft. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or your air fryer to the same temperature. Place the cooled pizza sticks on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching too much. Reheat for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and have regained their delightful crispiness. It’s like they’re fresh out of the fryer!
Frequently Asked Questions About Deep Fried Pizza Sticks
What are deep fried pizza sticks?
Deep fried pizza sticks are essentially small, handheld portions of pizza dough that have been wrapped around cheese (and often pepperoni or other toppings), then breaded and deep-fried until golden and crispy. They offer all the beloved flavors of pizza in a fun, dippable appetizer format.
Why deep fry pizza sticks?
We deep fry pizza sticks because it creates an incredibly satisfying crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the warm, melted mozzarella inside. This cooking method also gives them a delightful puffiness and a rich, slightly chewy texture that you just can’t get from baking or air frying. It’s that extra bit of indulgence that makes these cheesy fried pizza bites so special!
Can I use different cheese for my fried pizza mozzarella sticks?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for its melty, gooey texture, feel free to experiment. Provolone, a blend of mozzarella and cheddar, or even a mild fontina would work wonderfully in these fried pizza mozzarella sticks. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well!
What are the best dipping sauces for deep fried pizza sticks?
Marinara sauce is the traditional favorite, offering a tangy contrast. However, I love serving these with a variety of options like creamy ranch dressing, spicy arrabbiata sauce, garlic aioli, or even a pesto dip. Having a few choices makes these pizza stick appetizers even more fun for everyone.
Variations of Deep Fried Pizza Sticks You Can Try
While the classic deep fried pizza sticks are amazing, I love getting creative in the kitchen! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Trying new variations is a fantastic way to enjoy these cheesy fried pizza bites in different ways.
- Vegetarian Delight: Skip the pepperoni and add sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of dried herbs like oregano and basil directly onto the cheese before folding the dough. These make wonderful savory snacks without meat.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb coating or include a thin slice of jalapeño along with the mozzarella. You could also try a spicy marinara for dipping.
- Air Fryer Option: If you prefer a slightly healthier approach or don’t want to deep fry, you can make these in an air fryer. Prepare them the same way, coat them, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. These become fantastic air fryer pizza sticks!
- Sweet & Savory: Experiment with different fillings! You could try a combination of mozzarella and a hint of fig jam for a sweet and savory profile, or even make little deep fried pizza roll ups with just cheese and a drizzle of honey after frying.
Deep Fried Pizza Sticks: Amazing Cheesy Snack
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 pizza sticks 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian (optional)
Description
Deep Fried Pizza Sticks with Mozzarella are a delightful and crispy snack, combining pizza flavors with the satisfying crunch of fried dough and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 8–10 mozzarella cheese sticks or 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (optional)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup bread crumbs or Italian-style bread crumbs
- Vegetable or canola oil, for deep frying
- Marinara or pizza sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into strips wide enough to wrap around each mozzarella stick or filling.
- Place a mozzarella stick (and pepperoni, if using) on each dough strip. Fold the dough over and pinch the edges to seal completely, forming a stick.
- Roll each sealed pizza stick in flour, dip in the beaten eggs, and coat evenly with bread crumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully fry the pizza sticks in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the deep fried pizza sticks with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, omit the pepperoni and add sautéed mushrooms or olives.
- Double-coat the sticks with breadcrumbs for an extra crispy crust.
- Brush dough with garlic butter before frying for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Avoid microwaving to keep the exterior crisp.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Deep Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pizza stick
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 (varies with ingredients)
- Sugar: Varies
- Sodium: Varies
- Fat: Varies
- Saturated Fat: Varies
- Unsaturated Fat: Varies
- Trans Fat: Varies
- Carbohydrates: Varies
- Fiber: Varies
- Protein: Varies
- Cholesterol: Varies
