Homemade Mozzarella Sticks (Print Version)

Create crispy, gooey cheese sticks with fresh ingredients and customizable seasonings for a crowd-pleasing appetizer everyone will love.

# Ingredients:

01 - 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 2 tbsp water
05 - 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
06 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
07 - Cooking oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
08 - Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Cut each mozzarella string cheese stick in half to create 24 smaller pieces. Place them in the freezer for 30 minutes until firm.
02 - Set up three shallow bowls: first with flour, second with eggs and water whisked together, and third with Italian breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese.
03 - Working one at a time, roll each frozen cheese stick in flour, then dip in egg wash, and finally coat with breadcrumb mixture. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb coating for a second layer.
04 - Return the breaded cheese sticks to the freezer for 15-20 minutes to ensure the cheese stays intact during frying.
05 - Heat 2.5 cm (1 inch) of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 175°C (350°F).
06 - Carefully lower mozzarella sticks into hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
07 - Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to paper towel-lined plate. Serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping.

# Notes:

01 - Freezing the cheese sticks before frying prevents them from melting too quickly during cooking.
02 - Maintaining oil temperature at 175°C (350°F) is essential for achieving the perfect crispy exterior.
03 - Homemade mozzarella sticks offer fresher taste and better texture than frozen store-bought alternatives.