Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces (340g) mozzarella cheese (string cheese or block)
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-seasoned)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Cut mozzarella cheese into sticks about 1/2 inch thick and 3 inches long.
  2. Place cheese sticks on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  3. In one shallow bowl, place the flour.
  4. In a second bowl, whisk eggs until blended.
  5. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  6. Dip each chilled mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess.
  7. Dip into the egg mixture, coating well.
  8. Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere. Repeat for all sticks.
  9. Return breaded sticks to the baking sheet and refrigerate for another 15 minutes to set.
  10. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
  11. Carefully add a few sticks at a time to avoid overcrowding.
  12. Fry until golden brown, approximately 1-2 minutes per side, using a slotted spoon to remove them.
  13. Transfer fried sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  14. Serve hot with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.