Ingredients
Cheese
- 8 Frozen String Cheese
Coating Ingredients
- ¼ cup flour
- 1 egg
- 1 ½ tablespoon milk
- 1 cup panko crumbs
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
Cooking Oil
- Canola oil (enough to fill pot 1 inch)
Instructions
- Cut the cheese: Cut the frozen string cheese pieces in half to create bite-sized sticks.
- Flour coating: Place the flour in a bowl and lightly coat each piece of string cheese with flour to help the egg mixture adhere better.
- Prepare egg wash: In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined.
- Season panko crumbs: In a shallow pan or pie tin, mix the panko crumbs with Italian seasoning, pepper, and garlic salt for a flavorful crust.
- Heat oil: Pour canola oil into a deep skillet to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches the right temperature for frying — test by dropping one coated piece into the oil; if it floats to the surface within 5-10 seconds, it is ready.
- Coat cheese sticks: Dip each floured string cheese piece into the egg and milk mixture, then coat generously with the seasoned panko crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry the sticks: Carefully place the coated cheese sticks into the hot oil. Fry each side for 30-60 seconds until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve: Remove fried mozzarella sticks and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Allow to cool for a minute before serving with marinara sauce.
Notes
- Use frozen string cheese to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly and oozing out during frying.
- Make sure oil is hot enough to ensure a crispy coating without absorbing excess oil.
- If desired, you can double-dip by repeating the egg wash and panko coating step for an extra crunchy crust.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
- Leftovers can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness but are best when fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American