Ingredients
16 oz (450g) part-skim, low-moisture mozzarella block or string cheese
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tbsp milk (any kind)
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
4 cups vegetable oil (or canola/peanut oil) for frying
Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
Step 1: If using a block of part-skim, low-moisture mozzarella, cut it into 1/2-inch thick by 3-4 inch long sticks. If using string cheese, simply unwrap them. Arrange the mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 2: Place the baking sheet with mozzarella sticks into the freezer for at least 30 minutes to firm them up.
Step 3: Set up your breading station: In the first shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. In the second, whisk the eggs with the milk. In the third, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Double bread the mozzarella: Dredge each partially frozen stick first in flour, then egg, then seasoned panko. Repeat the entire flour-egg-panko process for each stick to ensure a thick coating.
Step 5: Arrange the double-breaded mozzarella sticks back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Return them to the freezer for at least 2-4 hours, or preferably overnight, until completely solid.
Step 6: In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot, pour about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil. Heat over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
Step 7: Carefully drop 3-4 frozen mozzarella sticks into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate, immediately sprinkle with salt, and serve with warm marinara sauce. Repeat with remaining sticks, ensuring oil returns to temperature between batches.
Notes
The double-breading and crucial second freeze are the secrets to preventing cheese leakage and achieving truly crispy, gooey mozzarella sticks. Don't rush these steps!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Drinks, Snacks & Holiday Treats
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 sticks
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg