# What You'll Need:
→ Cheese
01 - 14 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into ½ x 3-inch sticks
→ Breading
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 2 tbsp milk
05 - 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
06 - ½ tsp garlic powder
07 - ½ tsp dried Italian herbs
08 - ½ tsp salt
09 - ¼ tsp black pepper
→ For Frying
10 - Vegetable oil for deep frying
→ To Serve
11 - Marinara sauce for dipping
# Cooking Steps:
01 - Set up three shallow bowls. Place flour in the first bowl. Whisk eggs with milk in the second bowl. Combine breadcrumbs with garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper in the third bowl.
02 - Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with seasoned breadcrumbs. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for a double layer that ensures the cheese stays contained.
03 - Arrange coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for at least 1 hour until firm throughout. This step is critical—firm coating prevents cheese leakage during frying.
04 - Pour vegetable oil into a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot. Heat to 350°F. Maintain this temperature for optimal crisping without burning.
05 - Fry mozzarella sticks in batches, cooking 1–2 minutes while turning occasionally. Cook until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pot, which lowers oil temperature and results in soggy coating.
06 - Remove sticks with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce while cheese is still melted and gooey.
