Crispy Cheesy Mozzarella Sticks: A Deliciously Simple Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 sticks mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika
• to taste salt and pepper
• as needed oil for frying
• as needed marinara sauce for serving

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing a breading station. In a shallow bowl, place the flour and season it with salt and pepper.
2. In a second shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until well combined.
3. In a third shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika, mixing well.
4. Take each mozzarella stick and coat it first in the flour, shaking off any excess.
5. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
6. Finally, roll the cheese stick in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is completely coated. Repeat the process for all mozzarella sticks.
7. Once all sticks are breaded, freeze them for at least 30 minutes; this will help keep the cheese from oozing out during frying.
8. Heat oil in a deep pan or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat (around 350°F or 175°C).
9. Carefully fry the frozen mozzarella sticks in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan.
10. Using a slotted spoon, remove the sticks and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
11. Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.