2 cups plain dry breadcrumbs (Panko recommended for extra crispiness)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetable oil, for deep frying (about 3-4 cups)
Instructions
Prepare the cheese: Place the mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until very firm. This step prevents the cheese from leaking during frying.
Set up the breading station: Prepare three shallow dishes. In the first, place the flour. In the second, whisk the eggs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. In the third, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Double bread the sticks: Take the frozen cheese sticks one at a time. First, dredge thoroughly in the flour, shaking off excess. Next, dip completely in the egg mixture. Finally, press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating completely. For maximum crispiness, repeat the egg dip and breadcrumb coating process (double breading).
Freeze again: Place the breaded sticks back on the parchment-lined sheet and freeze for another 30 minutes. This sets the coating.
Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Fry the sticks: Working in small batches, carefully lower 4 to 6 sticks into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes, turning occasionally, until the coating is deep golden brown and crisp.
Drain: Remove the sticks with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
For an air fryer method, spray the frozen, breaded sticks lightly with cooking spray. Cook at 380 degrees F (195 degrees C) for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
Use low-moisture mozzarella; fresh mozzarella contains too much water and will melt out quickly.
You can prepare the breaded sticks completely, place them in a freezer bag, and freeze them for up to one month. Fry directly from frozen, adding about 30 seconds to the cooking time.