Ingredients
Scale
- 12 pieces of string cheese (cut in half for smaller bites)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- Vegetable oil (for frying, about 1–2 inches deep in the pan)
- Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or marinara-ranch mix (for dipping)
Instructions
- Cut each piece of string cheese in half to create smaller, bite-sized portions. Freeze the pieces for 15–20 minutes to firm them up, which helps prevent melting during frying.
- Set up three shallow bowls—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs. Coat each piece of frozen string cheese first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally roll in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated string cheese bites in small batches for 30–45 seconds per side, or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a combination of both for dipping. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or parsley for added flair if desired.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- Bake at 400°F for 10–12 minutes as a healthier alternative, flipping halfway through for even browning.
- Freeze uncooked coated bites for up to 1 month; fry directly from frozen without thawing.
- Reheat leftover bites in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to retain crispiness.
- Experiment with seasonings like paprika, cayenne pepper, or dried herbs for unique flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 4–5 bites)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg