Spicy Cheesy Mozzarella Sticks (Print-Friendly Version)

Crispy, spicy mozzarella sticks with gooey cheese, perfect for snacking or entertaining crowds.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Main

01 - 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks

→ Egg Wash

02 - 2 large eggs
03 - 1/4 cup milk

→ Dry Coating

04 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
05 - 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
09 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
10 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ For Frying

11 - Vegetable or canola oil, for deep frying

# How to Make It:

01 - Unwrap mozzarella sticks and cut each in half to yield 24 pieces. Arrange on a tray and freeze for at least 1 hour until fully firm.
02 - In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. In a second bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
03 - Dredge each frozen mozzarella stick in the seasoned flour, then dip into the egg wash, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more.
04 - Return breaded mozzarella sticks to the freezer for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until coating is set.
05 - Pour vegetable or canola oil into a deep skillet or saucepan to a depth of 2 inches and heat to 350°F. Fry mozzarella sticks in batches for 1 to 2 minutes, turning them to achieve an even golden crust. Remove promptly once deeply golden and crisp.
06 - Transfer fried sticks onto paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Freezing the cheese sticks both before breading and prior to frying is crucial to prevent melting and maintain a crisp exterior.