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Before diving into the delicious endeavor of making crispy mozzarella sticks, it’s crucial to have an organized workspace. A clutter-free kitchen not only enhances your efficiency but also ensures that you have all your tools and ingredients within reach. Start by gathering the necessary utensils like mixing bowls, a frying pan, a slotted spatula, and kitchen paper towels for draining excess oil. Once you have everything at hand, you can focus on the task at hand without interruptions. This preparation sets the stage for a smooth cooking process and helps avoid any last-minute scrambling.

Crispy Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Dive into the delightful world of homemade crispy mozzarella sticks with this easy recipe! Enjoy the perfect combination of a crunchy exterior and gooey, melted cheese that will satisfy any cheese lover. Learn how to select the best mozzarella, set up a foolproof breading station, and fry to perfection. Personalize your sticks with favorite seasonings and pair them with tasty dipping sauces for an impressive appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress family and friends!
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces mozzarella cheese (use string cheese sticks or cut a block of cheese into sticks)

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Cheese: If you are using a block of mozzarella cheese, slice it into sticks that are approximately 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. If you opt for string cheese, you can skip this slicing step since they are already in stick form.

    Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, pour in the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them together until smooth and blended. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning (if using), salt, and black pepper, stirring to ensure even distribution of the seasonings.

      Coat the Cheese: Take each cheese stick and dredge it in the flour, coating it thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour to prevent clumping. Next, dip the floured stick into the egg mixture, allowing any drips to fall back into the bowl. Lastly, roll the stick in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to create an even and thick coating. Repeat this process until all cheese sticks are coated.

        Freeze for Firmness: After all cheese sticks are breaded, line a baking tray with parchment paper and arrange the sticks in a single layer. Place them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. Freezing helps to set the coating and prevents the cheese from leaking during frying.

          Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, add enough vegetable oil to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Check the oil’s readiness by dropping in a pinch of breadcrumbs; they should sizzle immediately upon contact.

            Fry the Cheese Sticks: Carefully add a few cheese sticks to the hot oil at a time, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the sticks for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

              Serve and Enjoy: Serve the crispy mozzarella sticks warm, with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Relish the contrast of the melty, gooey interior against the satisfying crunch of the exterior!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Arrange the mozzarella sticks on a rustic wooden platter or a colorful serving plate. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a small bowl of marinara sauce for an appealing presentation!