Cheese sticks

Cheese Sticks

Cheese sticks are a simple and delicious snack or appetizer that’s easy to make at home. They’re crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making them a perfect treat for cheese lovers. You can use mozzarella or any cheese you prefer for the filling, and they’re great for dipping in marinara sauce or ranch dressing.

Ingredients:

• 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (store-bought or cut from a block of mozzarella cheese)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tablespoon water

• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian-style)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• Vegetable oil for frying (or you can bake them)

• Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cheese Sticks:

   • If you are using mozzarella cheese blocks, cut them into sticks, about 3-4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.

   • Place the cheese sticks in the freezer for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Freezing them helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly when frying.

2. Set Up the Breading Station:

   • In one shallow bowl, place the flour.

   • In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until smooth.

   • In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano (optional), salt, and pepper.

3. Coat the Cheese Sticks:

   • Take each frozen cheese stick and dip it first into the flour, making sure it’s fully coated.

   • Then dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring the cheese stick is coated with egg.

   • Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the breadcrumbs stick. For a thicker coating, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.

4. Fry the Cheese Sticks:

   • Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C) when ready.

   • Fry the cheese sticks in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 1-2 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.

   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the cheese sticks and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

   OR for Baking:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

   • Place the breaded cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.

   • Spray the cheese sticks with cooking spray and bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the cheese sticks immediately while they’re hot and gooey.

   • Pair them with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping, if desired.

Tips:

• Freezing: Make sure the cheese sticks are well-chilled or frozen before frying or baking to prevent them from melting too quickly.

• Cheese Variety: You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or even string cheese for a fun twist.

• Air Fryer Option: If you have an air fryer, you can cook the cheese sticks at 375°F for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier version.

These Cheese Sticks are a deliciously crispy snack with melty cheese inside. Whether fried or baked, they’re sure to be a hit! Enjoy!