Crispy Cheesy Corn Sticks Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet corn and gooey, melted cheese wrapped in a crispy, golden coating. It’s crunchy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and bursting with flavor in every bite. These Crispy Cheesy Corn Sticks are the kind of snack that disappears the moment they hit the table.

Inspired by the beloved flavors of Korean cheese corn dogs and classic mozzarella sticks, this recipe blends the sweetness of corn kernels with the richness of cheese to create a handheld treat that’s both comforting and irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a weekend snack, a kids’ party, or just to satisfy your cheese cravings, these cheesy sticks will quickly become one of your favorites.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know: ingredients, step-by-step instructions, preparation tips, variations, serving suggestions, storage methods, and nutritional breakdown.

 Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Corn Sticks

1. Crispy + Gooey Combo – Perfectly crunchy exterior with molten cheese inside.

2. Snackable Size – Easy to hold, dip, and share.

3. Customizable – Play around with the cheese type, seasonings, or coating.

4. Crowd-Pleaser – From kids to adults, no one can resist cheesy snacks.

5. Perfect for Parties – Serve them with dipping sauces and watch them vanish.

 Ingredients for Cheesy Corn Sticks

For the Filling:

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen – thawed)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar for extra flavor)

• 2 tbsp cream cheese (softened, for creaminess)

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ¼ tsp paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)

• 1 tsp dried parsley or oregano (optional)

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil (enough for deep or shallow frying)

Optional Garnish & Serving:

• Chopped parsley

• Ketchup, spicy mayo, or sweet chili sauce for dipping

 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheesy Corn Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, shredded mozzarella, and cream cheese.

2. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Mix until the corn and cheese are evenly coated and form a sticky mixture.

Tip: If the mixture feels too loose, refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm it up.

2. Shape the Sticks

1. Divide the mixture into equal portions.

2. Roll each portion into a cylindrical stick shape, about 3–4 inches long.

3. Insert a wooden skewer into each stick to make them easier to handle.

4. Place shaped sticks on a tray lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 30 minutes (this prevents them from falling apart during frying).

3. Coat the Sticks

1. Set up a breading station with three bowls:

   • Bowl 1: Flour

   • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs

   • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with parsley/oregano

2. Roll each corn-cheese stick in flour, shaking off excess.

3. Dip into the beaten egg, then coat evenly in breadcrumbs.

4. For an extra crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps (double breading).

4. Fry Until Golden

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat (350°F / 175°C).

2. Carefully add the coated sticks in batches, avoiding overcrowding.

3. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side.

4. Remove and drain on paper towels.

5. Serve & Enjoy

• Garnish with chopped parsley.

• Serve hot with ketchup, spicy mayo, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.

 Preparation & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill/Freeze Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: ~1 hour 5 minutes

 Nutritional Information (per stick, approx.)

• Calories: 190 kcal

• Protein: 7g

• Carbohydrates: 14g

• Fat: 11g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 270mg

(Varies depending on cheese and frying oil absorption.)

 Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Corn Sticks

1. Use cold cheese – This helps prevent it from leaking out too quickly during frying.

2. Don’t skip chilling – Freezing helps the sticks hold their shape.

3. Panko breadcrumbs – Give the crispiest coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.

4. Fry in batches – Overcrowding lowers oil temperature and makes the coating soggy.

5. Drain properly – Place on a wire rack or paper towels to keep them crisp.

 Variations

• Cheddar Explosion – Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor.

• Spicy Kick – Add chopped jalapeños or chili flakes to the filling.

• Pizza Style – Mix in mini pepperoni bits and Italian seasoning.

• Veggie Loaded – Add finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or onions to the corn mixture.

• Air-Fryer Version – Spray coated sticks with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

 What to Serve with Cheesy Corn Sticks

These snacks are versatile and pair well with many sides and sauces:

• Classic ketchup or marinara sauce

• Spicy mayo (mayo + sriracha)

• Sweet chili sauce

• Garlic aioli

• Ranch dressing

• BBQ dipping sauce

For a bigger meal, serve them alongside:

• French fries

• Onion rings

• A fresh salad

• Grilled chicken skewers

 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze uncooked coated sticks on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen when ready (just add 1–2 minutes).

• Reheating: Re-crisp in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes or air fryer for 5–7 minutes.

 Final Thoughts

These Crispy Cheesy Corn Sticks are everything you love in a snack: crunchy, cheesy, and irresistibly fun to eat. They’re versatile, easy to make ahead, and customizable to your taste. Whether you’re making them for game night, a kids’ party, or just to indulge in a cheesy craving, this recipe delivers every time.

The next time you’re torn between mozzarella sticks and corn fritters, why not combine them into one? With these corn and cheese sticks, you’ll have the perfect snack that’s bound to impress.