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Mozzarella sticks have long held a special place in the pantheon of beloved snacks and appetizers. Their gooey, melty cheese core and crunchy exterior make them a favorite for both casual gatherings and elegant parties alike. Whether served at a game day bash or as a starter at a fancy Italian restaurant, these delicious sticks of cheese never fail to impress. However, while you can easily find frozen mozzarella sticks in the freezer aisle of your local supermarket, nothing quite compares to the satisfaction of biting into a freshly made batch of homemade mozzarella sticks.

The Crispiest Homemade Mozzarella Sticks – Ooey Gooey Perfection!

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with homemade mozzarella sticks that are perfectly crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. This delicious recipe allows you to control ingredients for a healthier twist while enjoying the irresistible crunch of seasoned breadcrumbs. Dive into the cooking process, from breading and frying to discovering the best dipping sauces. Gather your loved ones for a fun cooking adventure and savor every cheesy bite of this classic snack. Perfect for game days or cozy nights!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)

1 cup panko bread crumbs

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Marinara sauce (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Cheese: Start by freezing the mozzarella sticks for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial as it keeps the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.

    Set Up Your Breading Station: In three separate bowls, set up your breading station:

      - In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour.

        - In the second bowl, beat the two large eggs.

          - In the third bowl, combine the regular breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.

            Bread the Cheese Sticks: Once the mozzarella sticks have been frozen, take them out one by one and coat each stick in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured cheese stick into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Repeat this step for all the cheese sticks.

              Double Dip (Optional but Recommended): For an extra crispy finish, go back to the egg wash and breadcrumb station:

                - Dip each breaded cheese stick back into the egg wash and roll it again in the breadcrumbs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

                  Chill Again: Return the breaded sticks to the freezer for another 30 minutes. This will help them maintain their shape while frying.

                    Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or a large skillet, pour in about 2 inches of vegetable oil and heat it to 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is hot enough.

                      Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Carefully lower the prepared mozzarella sticks into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, turning them occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.

                        Drain and Serve: Once fried, remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

                          Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 4-6