fried cheese sticks recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best fried cheese sticks recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite fried cheese sticks recipe that’s been a staple in our household for years. This dish has its roots in Italian cuisine, where fried mozzarella is a popular appetizer or snack.

The combination of crispy outside and gooey inside is absolutely irresistible, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is – it’s perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions like family gatherings or parties.

My kids love helping me make the cheese sticks, and they’re always thrilled to be the ones who get to dip them in marinara sauce. Plus, this recipe is a great way to get some extra calcium into our diets, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.

And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good cheese fix every now and then?

Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks

4.7 from 1784 votes

Golden, crispy fried cheese sticks served with a side of marinara sauce. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cheese Sticks

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1 cup milk
1 egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs

For the Marinara Sauce

1 cup marinara sauce
1 tsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your deep fryer or a deep skillet with oil to 375°F.
2This will ensure the cheese sticks cook evenly and become crispy.
3You will know the oil is ready when it reaches 375°F and small bubbles form around a wooden spoon handle dipped in the oil.
4In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
5This will give the cheese sticks a savory and slightly spicy flavor.
6Whisk in the milk and egg until a smooth batter forms.
7This batter will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the cheese sticks and create a crispy coating.
8Divide the shredded mozzarella cheese into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a stick about 4 inches long and 1 inch wide.
9This will make it easier to coat and fry the cheese sticks.
10Roll each cheese stick in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
11Then, dip it in the batter and roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
12Place the coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for 10 minutes.
13This will help the coating set and prevent it from falling off during frying.
14Carefully place the cheese sticks in the preheated oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
15Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
16Use tongs to flip the cheese sticks gently.
17Remove the cheese sticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
18The cheese should be fully melted and gooey inside, while the outside is crispy and golden brown.
19In a small saucepan, heat the marinara sauce and olive oil over medium heat.
20Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
21This will enhance the flavor of the sauce.
22Serve the fried cheese sticks with the warm marinara sauce for dipping.
23Enjoy immediately while the cheese sticks are hot and crispy.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Deep fryer or deep skillet
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, for a different flavor. For a healthier option, you can bake the cheese sticks in the oven at 425°F for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcook or overcrowd the cheese sticks to avoid them sticking together.

Watch Video Of How Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks Works

This fried cheese sticks recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special event like a holiday party or family gathering.

Not only are they delicious and easy to make, but they’re also relatively healthy compared to other fried snacks out there.

Plus, they’re super versatile – you can serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a larger meal like pasta or pizza night.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Fried Cheese Sticks

1. What type of cheese is best for making fried cheese sticks?

Mozzarella is the most popular choice for this recipe because it melts beautifully and has a mild flavor that pairs well with marinara sauce. You can also use other types of cheese like cheddar or provolone, but mozzarella is the classic choice.

2. Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of shredding it myself?

While pre-shredded cheese can save you some time, it’s not the best option for this recipe. Shredding your own mozzarella ensures that the cheese is nice and uniform, which helps it melt evenly when you fry it.

3. How do I prevent my cheese sticks from sticking together?

To avoid sticking, make sure your cheese sticks are coated evenly with flour before frying them. You can also try dusting them with a little bit of cornstarch or breadcrumbs if you find that they’re still sticking together.

4. Can I bake my cheese sticks instead of frying them?

Yes, you can definitely bake your cheese sticks instead of frying them if you prefer a healthier option or if you’re short on time. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

5. How do I store leftover fried cheese sticks?

If you have leftover fried cheese sticks, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to serve.

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