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Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

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4 from 12 reviews

Crispy, golden-brown mozzarella sticks coated in seasoned panko crumbs, perfect as a tasty appetizer or snack. These mozzarella sticks are quick to prepare and fried to perfection in canola oil, served best with marinara sauce for dipping.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 16 pieces

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

  1. Cut the cheese: Cut the frozen string cheese pieces in half to create bite-sized sticks.
  2. 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.
  3. Prepare egg wash: In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American