Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Take your string cheese sticks and carefully cut each one in half. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels; this is crucial for ensuring the coating adheres properly. In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped crispy beef bacon.1 pound string cheese sticks, ½ cup finely chopped cooked beef bacon
- Arrange three shallow dishes or plates in an assembly line.
- Dish 1: Add the all-purpose flour.1 cup all-purpose flour
- Dish 2: Pour in the beaten eggs.2 large eggs
- Dish 3: Combine the panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly until well incorporated.1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ½ teaspoon chili powder, ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Working one piece at a time, coat each mozzarella stick generously in the flour, shaking off any excess.1 pound string cheese sticks, 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Dip the floured mozzarella stick into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully submerged. Let any excess egg drip back into the dish.1 pound string cheese sticks, 2 large eggs
- Carefully transfer the egg-washed mozzarella stick to the panko breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto all sides of the cheese stick, ensuring it's completely covered. While pressing, gently embed some of the finely chopped beef bacon into the breadcrumb coating. You might need to press it on more deliberately to ensure it sticks. Repeat this entire coating process for all the mozzarella sticks, making sure they are well-coated with both the breadcrumbs and the delicious beef bacon bits.1 pound string cheese sticks, 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup finely chopped cooked beef bacon
- Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. For the best results and to prevent the cheese from oozing out during frying, pop them into the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This step is vital for a perfect crust.1 pound string cheese sticks
- Pour your chosen frying oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or a deep skillet. The oil should be deep enough to submerge the mozzarella sticks, ideally about 2-3 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of breading into it; it should sizzle immediately.Oil for frying
- Carefully place a few mozzarella sticks into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 1-2 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the cheese is just starting to melt and ooze. They cook very quickly, so watch them closely!1 pound string cheese sticks, Oil for frying
- Using a slotted spoon or spider strainer, remove the fried mozzarella sticks from the oil and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil. For that extra Nashville hot kick, you can immediately brush them with a little warmed Nashville hot sauce or toss them in a little extra hot spice blend while they are still hot.1 pound string cheese sticks, Nashville hot sauce
- Best enjoyed hot, right out of the fryer, with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer for best crispiness. Do not microwave or freeze.