fried cheese sticks

🧀 Fried Cheese Sticks Recipe

Ingredients:

• 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks (or block mozzarella cut into sticks)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tbsp milk

• 1½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs (Italian-style is great)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

• Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut)

Instructions:

1. Prep the cheese:
   Cut mozzarella into 3–4 inch sticks if not using string cheese. Freeze for at least 1 hour — this helps prevent the cheese from melting too fast and oozing out during frying.

2. Set up breading stations:

   • Bowl 1: Flour

   • Bowl 2: Eggs + milk (whisked together)

   • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder (if using)

3. Bread the cheese sticks:

   • Roll frozen cheese in flour → egg → breadcrumbs.

   • For extra crispy coating, repeat the egg → breadcrumb step.

   • Place breaded sticks on a tray and freeze for another 30 min.

4. Fry:

   • Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).

   • Fry cheese sticks in batches for about 1–2 minutes, until golden brown.

   • Don’t overcrowd the pan.

5. Drain and serve:

   • Remove to a paper towel-lined plate.

   • Serve hot with marinara, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Let me know if you want a baked or air-fried version too!