- Unwrap the string cheese sticks and cut them in half if desired. Place them on a tray and freeze for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Mix flour and cornstarch.
- Bowl 2: Whisk eggs with whole milk.
- Bowl 3: Combine bread crumbs, panko, Italian seasoning, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Remove cheese sticks from freezer. Coat each stick in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, then roll thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more for extra crispiness.
- Place breaded cheese sticks back in the freezer for 30 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry cheese sticks in small batches for 1–2 minutes, until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately.
Serving and Storage:
Serve hot with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli. Leftover mozzarella sticks can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results—avoid microwaving to keep them crispy.
Tips:
- Freezing is essential to prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
- Double breading gives the best crunch and prevents blowouts.
- Use a thermometer to maintain proper oil temperature.
- Air-fryer option: Cook at 390°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Customize seasoning with garlic powder or chili flakes for extra flavor.
Conclusion:
Homemade mozzarella sticks are crispy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. With simple ingredients and a little prep, you can enjoy restaurant-quality cheese sticks right from your kitchen. Once you make them yourself, you’ll never want to go back to frozen ones.
FAQ:
Why do I need to freeze the cheese sticks?
Freezing keeps the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking out while frying.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 425°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
What oil works best?
Vegetable oil or canola oil works best due to their high smoke points.
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes, bread them and freeze until ready to cook.
What dipping sauces pair well?
Marinara, ranch, spicy mayo, or honey mustard are all great options.