Mozzarella Sticks

Using a sharp knife, cut the mozzarella cheese into 12 sticks that are 3 to 4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick on all sides. Editor’s Tip: You can also make mozzarella sticks with string cheese. No cutting is required because they’re already the perfect size and shape. In testing, however, we found that cutting our own cheese sticks from a block yielded fried mozzarella sticks with a creamier, more gooey cheesy interior.

Next, grab three shallow bowls and line them up in a row. In the first, whisk together the flour, salt and pepper. In the second, beat together the four eggs, and in the third bowl, combine the bread crumbs, panko, garlic and Italian seasoning.

Working with one cheese stick at a time, dredge the cheese through the flour to coat it on all sides (it helps the breading stick). Then, dunk it into the egg, making sure all sides (don’t forget the ends!) are moistened. Finally, roll, press and coat the cheese stick in the bread crumb mixture.

You’re not done yet! Dip the bread crumb-coated cheese back into the egg for a second time, followed by another layer of the panko mixture. Press and mold the bread crumbs as you work, ensuring no cheese is left exposed. Place the breaded cheese onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, then repeat this process with the rest of the cheese sticks until all are evenly coated. Editor’s Tip: Don’t skip the second dip! It’s our secret trick to making homemade mozzarella sticks with a perfect, crunchy coating that prevents any cheese from leaking out while frying.

Transfer the sheet pan to the refrigerator and allow the cheese sticks to chill for 10 to 15 minutes. For extra security, you could freeze them instead, but don’t leave them in the freezer for more than 30 minutes. Editor’s Tip: Chilling the mozzarella sticks before frying gives the breading a chance to set. The egg hydrates the flour and bread crumbs, which helps create a tight seal around the cheese to prevent any leakage during frying.

While the mozzarella sticks chill, fill an electric skillet or deep fryer to its fill line with oil and preheat to 350°F. Once the oil has come to frying temperature, carefully lower just a few mozzarella sticks into the oil, taking care not to overcrowd the fryer. Cook the mozzarella sticks until golden brown on all sides, two to three minutes. Turn (or shake if using a frying basket) and agitate the sticks as they cook to prevent sticking and to ensure all sides become evenly browned. Editor’s Tip: If you don’t own a deep fryer, you can also fill a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven with 2 inches of oil.

Remove the fried mozzarella sticks to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly. Serve them warm with your choice of sauce, and enjoy! Editor’s Tip: For a special finish, sprinkle the hot cheese sticks with finely grated Parmesan, truffle seasoning and freshly chopped basil.