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Mozzarella cheese is a beloved ingredient recognized for its creamy texture and mild flavor, making it a comforting staple in countless dishes. From personal pizzas to rich lasagnas, mozzarella holds a special place in the hearts and palates of cheese lovers worldwide. Among its many delightful preparations, the Crispy Mozzarella Magic Sticks stand out as a perfect appetizer or snack that exemplifies how this versatile cheese can transform into something truly magical. With each bite, you experience the delightful contrast of gooey, melted cheese enveloped in a crunchy exterior, creating a sensory treat that appeals to both adults and children alike.

Crispy Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Discover the magic of homemade Crispy Mozzarella Magic Sticks with this simple recipe! Perfect for appetizers or snacks, these treats feature gooey, melted mozzarella encased in a crunchy coating. With just a few ingredients like fresh mozzarella, panko breadcrumbs, and savory seasonings, you can impress guests or indulge in a comforting bite. Serve them with marinara for the classic experience or mix it up with your favorite dips. Enjoy the blend of textures and flavors that make these sticks a hit for all ages!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese sticks (approximately 12 sticks)

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (for an extra crunchy texture)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp Italian seasoning

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Marinara sauce (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prep the Cheese: Start by cutting each mozzarella cheese stick in half to create 24 smaller pieces. Place these halves in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This will firm them up, making it less likely for them to melt too quickly while frying.

    Set Up a Breading Station: Create a three-part assembly line with shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In the final bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

      Bread the Cheese Sticks: Take the frozen mozzarella pieces out of the freezer. Individually coat each cheese stick in the flour, ensuring to shake off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, letting any extra egg drip back into the bowl. Finally, roll the cheese stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it is evenly coated. Repeat this process until all the cheese sticks are breaded.

        Chill Again: For added crunch, return the breaded cheese sticks to the freezer for another 30 minutes. This step helps the breading stick better during frying.

          Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or fryer, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover about 2 inches of the bottom. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) to ensure perfect frying.

            Fry the Cheese Sticks: Carefully lower the breaded cheese sticks into the hot oil in small batches, taking care not to crowd the pan. Fry for approximately 1-2 minutes on each side or until they turn a golden brown and crispy.

              Drain and Serve: Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the crispy mozzarella sticks from the oil, placing them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve these delicious sticks hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 min | 1 hr | 4-6 servings

                  Presentation Tips: Arrange the crispy mozzarella sticks neatly on a platter. Add fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch and a small bowl of marinara sauce in the center for an inviting presentation.