Cheese Sticks (5) Recipe
Crispy breaded cheese sticks served with a side of tangy marinara sauce and sliced pickles.
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Ingredients
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Cheese Sticks
Marinara Sauce
Garnish & Serve
Method
Cheese Sticks
Prepare cheese
If using a block of mozzarella, cut into 5 equal sticks about 4 inches long and 3/4 inch thick. Pat sticks dry with paper towel to remove surface moisture — this helps breading adhere and limits leaking when frying.
Set up breading stations
Place flour in a shallow bowl. In a second shallow bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 2 tablespoons cold water until smooth. In a third shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper; mix well.
Bread the cheese sticks (double coat for best results)
Working one at a time, dredge a cheese stick in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, letting excess drip off, then press into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated. For a more secure crust, return the coated stick to the egg wash briefly, then roll again in the breadcrumbs for a second coat. Place breaded sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes (recommended) or 15 minutes if short on time — freezing helps prevent cheese from oozing during frying.
Heat oil
Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan to a depth of about 1 to 1.5 inches (roughly enough to half-submerge the sticks). Heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) or until a breadcrumb dropped in sizzles and browns in about 30–45 seconds. Maintain oil temperature between 325–350°F (163–175°C) during frying.
Fry the cheese sticks
Fry breaded cheese sticks in batches (do not overcrowd) for about 1.5–2 minutes per side, turning gently so all sides become golden brown. Total frying time should be 3–4 minutes. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove and drain on a paper towel–lined plate. If any stick begins to leak cheese, remove it promptly and let drain.
Keep warm
If making multiple batches, keep finished sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet in a warm oven set to 200°F (95°C) for up to 10–15 minutes while you finish frying remaining sticks (avoid longer or cheese may overmelt).
Marinara Sauce
Warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat until just simmering, about 4–6 minutes. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes and chopped basil (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.