Irresistible Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Ingredients:

12 mozzarella cheese sticks
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Instructions:

Freeze the mozzarella cheese sticks for at least 1 hour to ensure they hold their shape while frying.
In a shallow bowl, place flour. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Dredge each cheese stick first in flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Fry the cheese sticks in batches for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcook to avoid melting the cheese out.
Remove the cheese sticks from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes:

For a healthier version, you can bake the cheese sticks at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a bit of spice.
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cooking Time: 5 mins | Total Time: 1 hour 15 mins | Kcal: ~250 (per 4 sticks) | Servings: 3