🧀 Fried Cheese Sticks (Mozzarella Sticks)
Yields: ~16 sticks
Prep Time: 15 min
Freeze Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 3–4 min per batch
Total Time: ~1 hour 20 min
🧂 Ingredients:
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16 mozzarella string cheese sticks (or cut block cheese into ½-inch thick sticks)
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2 large eggs
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¼ cup milk
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (or plain + Italian seasoning)
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½ cup grated Parmesan (optional, for extra flavor)
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp paprika (optional)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Vegetable oil, for frying
🍳 Instructions:
1. Prep the Coating Station:
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Bowl 1: Flour
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Bowl 2: Whisk together eggs and milk
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Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs + Parmesan + garlic powder + paprika + salt & pepper
2. Bread the Cheese Sticks:
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Coat each cheese stick in flour → dip in egg wash → roll in breadcrumbs.
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For extra crunch: Repeat egg wash + breadcrumb coating a second time.
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Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
3. Freeze:
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Freeze for at least 1 hour (this prevents them from melting too fast when fried).
4. Fry:
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Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry 3–4 cheese sticks at a time for about 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve:
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Serve hot with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli.
🧊 Air Fryer Option:
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Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
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Lightly spray sticks with oil and air fry for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway.
🔁 Variations:
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Try other cheeses: cheddar, pepper jack, or Colby
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Add crushed hot Cheetos or Doritos to the breadcrumb mix for a spicy crust
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Make them spicy with cayenne or chili flakes in the breading
Let me know if you want a baked version, low-carb/keto, or stuffed cheese sticks (like jalapeño popper style)!
