Description
Crispy and gooey Mozzarella Cheese Sticks that are perfect as a snack or appetizer. These cheese sticks are breaded with seasoned breadcrumbs, fried until golden brown, and served hot for a delicious treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
Cheese Sticks
- 16 oz low moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese block
Breading and Coating
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
For Frying
- 2 cups oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare Coatings: In the first bowl, combine the flour and garlic salt. In a second bowl, thoroughly beat the eggs with a fork. In a third bowl, place the Italian seasoned bread crumbs.
- Cut Cheese: Slice the mozzarella cheese block into 20 to 24 sticks, each about 3 inches long and just under 1/2 inch thick.
- Double Dredge Cheese: Dredge each cheese stick in the flour mixture, tapping off excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off, then dip again into the flour mixture followed by a second dip in the egg.
- Bread the Sticks: Roll the cheese stick in the bread crumbs, making sure all sides are evenly coated. Place the coated sticks on a platter, cover, and freeze for 45 minutes to help the breading adhere during frying.
- Heat Oil: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer over medium heat to 350˚F. Test the temperature by dropping a pinch of bread crumbs into the oil; they should sizzle and bubble immediately.
- Fry Cheese Sticks: Fry the cheese sticks in small batches (about 4 at a time) for 60 to 90 seconds. Turn them halfway through frying. Remove once the exterior is golden brown and crisp and before the cheese oozes out. Allow oil to return to 350°F before frying the next batch.
- Drain Excess Oil: Transfer fried cheese sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up excess oil before serving.
Notes
- Freezing the breaded cheese sticks before frying is crucial to prevent cheese from melting out during cooking.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for even frying and crispy texture.
- Serve immediately for best taste and gooey texture.
- Use low moisture mozzarella for optimal melting and frying results.
- If you prefer baking, spray with cooking spray and bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes until crispy, flipping halfway.
