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Golden Crunch Mozzarella Sticks are a beloved snack that has made their way into the hearts and stomachs of food enthusiasts around the world. Originally hailing from Italy, mozzarella sticks have become a staple in American cuisine, often found on appetizer menus in restaurants and bars. Their crispy exterior and gooey, melty center make them an irresistible treat for both kids and adults alike. These delightful cheesy snacks are not just a guilty pleasure; they embody a culinary tradition that celebrates the simple yet profound joy of melted cheese.

Golden Crunch Mozzarella Sticks

Discover the mouthwatering world of Golden Crunch Mozzarella Sticks! This delicious snack combines a crispy coating with a gooey, melty cheese center, making it a favorite for both kids and adults. Perfect for game nights or cozy evenings at home, this recipe is easy to follow and offers helpful tips for achieving the ultimate crunch. From ingredient insights to flavor variations, learn how to create these irresistible treats that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
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Ingredients
  

12 string mozzarella cheese sticks

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Cheese Sticks: Start by cutting each string cheese stick in half, yielding a total of 24 shorter mozzarella sticks. Arrange them on a plate and place in the freezer for at least 1 hour. Freezing is essential as it helps retain the cheese shape while frying, preventing it from melting too quickly.

    Set Up Your Breading Station: Create a streamlined breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the two large eggs until well combined. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and an additional pinch of salt for seasoning.

      Bread the Cheese Sticks: Once the mozzarella sticks are frozen, take them out and prepare to coat. Start by rolling a cheese stick in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully covered. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, roll the cheese stick in the seasoned breadcrumbs, gently pressing down to ensure a good coating. Repeat this process for all cheese sticks.

        Double Dip (Optional): For an extra layer of crunch, consider dipping each breaded cheese stick back into the egg mixture and then again into the breadcrumbs to create a double layer of coating.

          Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: In a large skillet, add about 1 inch of vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded cheese sticks in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry them for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and develop a crispy exterior. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sticks to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil.

            Serve: Serve your Golden Crunch Mozzarella Sticks while hot, accompanied by a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the delightful crunch and the irresistible gooeyness of melted cheese!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes | 4 servings

                Presentation Tips: Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a circle on a serving platter, with the marinara sauce in the center. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an appealing touch!