Homemade Cheese Sticks

Step-by-step instructions

1. In a small mixing bowl, beat the eggs and milk until fully combined. Set this mixture aside.
2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cornstarch, then set aside.
3. In another shallow bowl, mix the plain bread crumbs, panko, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Dredge each halved cheese stick in the egg mixture, then into the flour mixture, back to the egg mixture, and finally coat in the bread mixture.
6. Fry the coated cheese sticks in batches for 30 seconds to 1 minute until they turn golden brown.
7. Remove them from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Serve hot with marinara or your preferred dipping sauce.

Best ways to enjoy it

Serve your homemade cheese sticks hot and fresh for the best experience. They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy garlic aioli. Feel free to plate them with a sprinkle of Italian herbs or fresh parsley for a pop of color. A side of crispy salad or carrot sticks makes for a balanced snack or appetizer spread.

Keeping leftovers fresh

To keep your leftover cheese sticks fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them. Just be sure to wrap each cheese stick individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to feast again, thaw them in the fridge and reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness.

Pro chef tips

• To get the crispiest coating, make sure your oil is hot enough; a deeper golden color indicates they are perfectly cooked.
• For an extra flavor boost, try adding different seasonings to your breadcrumb mixture, such as garlic powder or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
• If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular bread crumbs work just fine, but panko will yield a crunchier texture.

Creative twists

There are numerous ways to customize these cheese sticks! You could try adding finely chopped jalapeños or herbs like basil and oregano to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor. For a fun variation, swap out the cheese sticks for mozzarella balls and make cheesy bites. You can even experiment with different dipping sauces, such as honey mustard or buffalo sauce, for a unique twist.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare these cheese sticks?

The entire process takes about 30 minutes, including preparation and frying time.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.

What’s the best method for reheating?

To retain their crunchiness, reheat the cheese sticks in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

How long will leftovers last?

Stored properly in the fridge, your leftover cheese sticks will stay fresh for about 3 days. If frozen, they can last up to 2 months.

Now go ahead, gather your ingredients, and bring a little cheesy delight into your home!