Homemade Crispy Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Ingredients:
- 16 oz of string cheese
- 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying
For Serving:
- Ranch dressing
- Marinara sauce
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a shallow bowl or plate. Stir these dry ingredients with a fork until well mixed.
- Place the all-purpose flour on another shallow bowl or plate.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, salt, pepper, and buttermilk. Pour this wet mixture into a third shallow bowl or plate.
- To coat each cheese stick, first dip it into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered. Next, roll the cheese stick in flour, dip it again in the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat it thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs onto the cheese to make sure they stick.
- Arrange the coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for 20-30 minutes. This helps them hold together better when fried.
- Heat about 2 inches of oil in a heavy skillet to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Fry the cheese sticks in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each batch until golden brown on all sides, about 2 minutes, turning them frequently for even cooking.
- Once fried, transfer the mozzarella sticks to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve your crispy mozzarella sticks hot with a side of ranch dressing, marinara sauce, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for garnish if desired.
Enjoy these golden, cheesy delights as a tasty snack or appetizer at your next gathering!