Ooey Gooey Mozzarella Sticks

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Skill Level:

• Intensity: Medium

Ingredients:

• 12 mozzarella cheese sticks
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Marinara sauce, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cheese Sticks:
   • Cut each mozzarella cheese stick in half to make 24 pieces.
   • Place the flour in a shallow bowl.
   • In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
   • In a third shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bread the Cheese Sticks:
   • Dredge each cheese stick in the flour, shaking off any excess.
   • Dip the floured cheese sticks into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated.
   • Roll the egg-coated cheese sticks in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs.
   • For a thicker coating, dip the breaded cheese sticks back into the eggs and then again in the breadcrumbs.
3. Chill the Breaded Cheese Sticks:
   • Place the breaded cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Freeze the cheese sticks for at least 1 hour to firm up and prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
4. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
   • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
   • Working in batches, fry the cheese sticks for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried mozzarella sticks and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the hot mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: 300
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 14g

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as an appetizer or snack at parties.
• Pair with a fresh salad or vegetable sticks for a balanced meal.

Enjoy these delicious Ooey Gooey Mozzarella Sticks, perfect for any cheese lover!