Ingredients
Cheese Sticks
- 16 oz Mozzarella Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups Italian Bread Crumbs
- 1 1/2 cups Flour
- 5 Eggs
- 1 tbsp Milk
- 1 1/2 cups Water
- 4-5 cups Vegetable Oil (enough to fill a saucepan about half full)
Dipping Sauce (Optional)
- Pizza Sauce or Marinara Sauce for Dipping
Instructions
- Cut the Cheese: Slice the mozzarella cheese into sticks about 1/4 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly and melt properly inside.
- Prepare Egg Wash: Crack the eggs into a bowl, add the milk, and beat well to create a smooth egg wash that will help the breadcrumbs adhere.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange bowls in order: one with water, one with flour, the egg wash bowl, and finally the Italian breadcrumbs bowl for an efficient coating process.
- Coat the Cheese Sticks: Dip each mozzarella stick first into the water, then thoroughly coat in flour. Next, dip into the egg wash ensuring full coverage, then roll in breadcrumbs to create a crunchy crust.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a saucepan filling it about halfway and heat to 350°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dipping a toothpick—if it bubbles around it, the oil is ready.
- Fry the Cheese Sticks: Carefully place the coated sticks in the hot oil and fry for 1-2 minutes, watching closely until they turn golden brown but are not burnt.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove fried cheese sticks with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease.
- Repeat and Serve: Continue the breading and frying process for all sticks. Serve warm with pizza or marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure oil temperature stays around 350°F for crispy, non-greasy cheese sticks.
- Work quickly when breading to prevent cheese from melting before frying.
- Use low moisture mozzarella cheese for best results to avoid excessive melting or oozing.
- Serve immediately for optimal gooey texture and crispiness.
- For a spicier twist, add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American