Fried Cheese Sticks are a classic, crowd-pleasing snack with a golden, crispy coating that encases warm, gooey cheese in every bite. These homemade cheese sticks are easy to make and perfect for dipping in marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dip. Made with mozzarella cheese and coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, these sticks are fried until perfectly crispy on the outside and irresistibly melty on the inside. Whether for a party appetizer or a fun snack, these fried cheese sticks are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 ½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- Marinara sauce or ranch dressing for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Coatings: Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, whisk the eggs with the milk. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.
- Coat the Cheese Sticks: Dredge each cheese stick half in flour, then dip it in the egg mixture, and coat with breadcrumbs. For a thicker coating, dip the breaded cheese stick back into the egg mixture and coat again with breadcrumbs. Place the coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour (freezing helps prevent the cheese from oozing out when frying).
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Cheese Sticks: Working in batches, fry the cheese sticks for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the fried cheese sticks hot with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dip.
Enjoy these irresistible Fried Cheese Sticks, a gooey, crispy snack perfect for sharing!
