I absolutely love making these Cheap Cheese Sticks! They remind me of those fun family gatherings where we would gather around the kitchen, laughing and munching on snacks. You know those moments when you just want something cheesy, crispy, and oh-so-delicious? Well, these cheese sticks have you covered without breaking the bank! You can whip them up in no time, and they make for an amazing appetizer, late-night snack, or even a cheesy addition to a picnic. Plus, they’re super customizable—so if you have a favorite cheese, feel free to mix and match!
One of my fondest memories is from a cozy movie night at my friend’s place, and we decided to try making these cheese sticks ourselves. There was flour and breadcrumbs everywhere, but the cheesy taste was totally worth the mess! Every bite brought me back to those carefree moments from my childhood, and from that day on, they became a staple for our gatherings. Let me share with you how to make them, so you can relive those cheesy memories too!
What’s in Cheap Cheese Sticks?
Cheese: The star of the show! I love using mozzarella for its classic stretchy texture, but feel free to experiment with cheddar or pepper jack for some extra kick.
Eggs: These help the breadcrumbs stick to the cheese, creating that perfect crispy exterior. I usually use large eggs for this recipe.
Flour: Just the all-purpose kind will do! It’s the first coating that gives the cheese sticks a nice base.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer using Italian-style breadcrumbs for added flavor, but plain works just as well. You can even use panko for a super-crunchy texture!
Seasonings: Think garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt! These are my go-to flavor enhancers. You can also add dried herbs like oregano or basil for a punch of freshness.
Is Cheap Cheese Sticks Good for You?
Alright, let’s talk about whether these cheese sticks are a guilt-free delight! While they might not qualify as a health food, they do have some redeeming qualities.
Cheese: Provides protein and calcium, which are essential for strong bones and overall health. Just keep an eye on the serving size to avoid too much saturated fat!
Eggs: A great source of protein and nutrients, but keep it balanced if you’re watching cholesterol levels.
Flour and Breadcrumbs: Carbs are essential for energy, but too much can lead to an energy crash, so moderation is key!
In short, enjoy these cheesy treats as a part of a balanced diet, and perhaps pair them with a side of veggies or a dip that has some nutritional value to brighten up the meal!
Ingredients List
– 8 ounces of **Cheese** (mozzarella, cheddar, or your choice)
– 2 large **Eggs**
– ½ cup of **Flour**
– 1 cup of **Breadcrumbs** (Italian or plain)
– 1 teaspoon of **Garlic powder**
– 1 teaspoon of **Onion powder**
– Salt, to taste
– Cooking oil (for frying)
This recipe makes about 12 cheese sticks, perfect for sharing!
How to Make Cheap Cheese Sticks?
1. **Prepare the Cheese:** Cut the cheese into sticks or rectangles, about 3 inches long and 1 inch thick.
2. **Set Up Coating Stations:** In one bowl, add the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt together.
3. **Coat the Cheese:** Dip each cheese stick first in the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally roll them in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
4. **Chill:** Place the coated cheese sticks on a plate and put them in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This helps the cheese firm up, so it won’t ooze out while cooking.
5. **Heat the Oil:** In a frying pan, heat up about an inch of oil over medium-high heat. To check if it’s ready, drop in a small piece of bread—if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
6. **Fry the Cheese Sticks:** Carefully drop a few cheese sticks into the hot oil, frying in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remove them using a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain off excess oil.
7. **Enjoy:** Serve warm with your favorite marinara sauce, ranch, or simply on their own. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Get Creative with Your Cheese Sticks!
Here are a few fun ideas and tips to play with your Cheap Cheese Sticks:
– **Add Heat:** For some spice, mix in some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
– **Bake Instead of Fry:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the sticks on a lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes for a healthier option.
– **Herb it Up:** Toss in some finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
These cheese sticks have this way of bringing everyone together, and I assure you they will disappear in no time! So grab your cheese, call your friends or family, and make some memories around the table. I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you—happy cooking!