Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Cheese sticks
Ranch dipping sauce
Method
Cheese sticks
Prepare cheese
Cut the chilled mozzarella block into 3/4-inch by 3/4-inch by 3-inch sticks (about 8–12 sticks per pound). Keep sticks cold on a parchment-lined tray in the refrigerator while preparing coatings.
Set up dredging station
Place the flour (and cornstarch, if using) in a shallow bowl and season with 1/2 tsp of the salt and 1/4 tsp pepper. In a second shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until combined. In a third shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, remaining 1/2 tsp salt and remaining 1/4 tsp pepper.
Coat the sticks (double breading)
Working one at a time, dredge each cheese stick in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, letting excess drip off, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly. For a firmer coating that reduces cheese leakage, repeat: dip the coated stick back in egg wash and again in breadcrumbs to double-coat. Place finished sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze uncovered for at least 30 minutes (recommended 45–60 minutes) to firm the coating.
Heat oil
Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or medium saucepan to a depth of about 1 to 1 1/4 inches (about 3/4 to 1 cup depending on pan size). Heat over medium-high until oil reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test with a small breadcrumb: it should sizzle and brown in about 20–30 seconds.
Fry the sticks
Fry the frozen breaded cheese sticks in batches (do not overcrowd) for 45–60 seconds per side, turning once, until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon or spider to remove and transfer to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or paper towel-lined tray to drain. Frying time is short; remove as soon as golden to avoid cheese leakage.
Finish
If needed, keep cooked sticks warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven for up to 10–15 minutes while frying remaining batches. Serve immediately with the prepared ranch dressing for dipping.
Ranch dipping sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream and buttermilk until smooth. Stir in chopped dill and chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper and lemon juice (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning or consistency with a little more buttermilk for thinner sauce. Chill at least 15 minutes to meld flavors before serving alongside the cheese sticks.