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A vertical stack of golden-brown Mozzarella Cheese Sticks with visible herb flakes and a thick panko crust. (Mozzarella Cheese Sticks)

Mozzarella Cheese Sticks with Extra Crispy Panko Breading

Master the art of the perfect cheese pull with these golden-brown Mozzarella Cheese Sticks. Featuring a double-panko breading and herb-infused crust, they are the ultimate crispy, stretchy snack for any occasion.
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Prep Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Mozzarella Stick Components
  • 12 units Mozzarella String Cheese approx. 12 oz / 340g
  • 0.5 cup All-Purpose Flour 65g
  • 2 large Eggs Beaten
  • 1.5 cups Panko Breadcrumbs 90g
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning dried herb flakes
  • 4 cups Neutral Oil 1L, for frying
  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce 240ml, for dipping

Equipment

  • 1 Heavy-bottomed pot or Deep Fryer
  • 1 Kitchen Thermometer Essential for tracking oil temperature.
  • 1 Wire Cooling Rack

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Unwrap the string cheese and freeze for 20 minutes to firm up.
  2. Set up three bowls: Flour, beaten eggs, and panko mixed with dried herbs.
Breading Process
  1. Coat each stick in flour, then egg, then panko. Repeat the egg and panko steps for a double coating.
  2. Freeze the breaded sticks for at least 2 hours. This is crucial to prevent the cheese from leaking.
Frying
  1. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pot.
  2. Fry sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Drain on a wire rack.

Notes

Always use a thermometer to ensure oil is at 350°F.
Do not over-crowd the pot or the oil temperature will drop and make the sticks greasy.