Add the eggs and milk to a small mixing bowl. Use a fork to beat the eggs and milk together until completely incorporated. Set it aside.

Add the all-purpose flour and cornstarch to a pie plate or shallow bowl. Whisk to combine. Set it aside.

Add the plain bread crumbs, panko bread crumbs, Italian seasoning, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to a pie plate or shallow bowl. Whisk to combine. Set it aside.

Add vegetable oil to a 3 to 4-quart heavy-bottomed saucepan and heat over medium-high heat to 350°F.

While the oil is heating, dredge the halved cheese sticks in the egg mixture.

Next, dredge in the flour mixture.

Dip the cheese sticks back in the egg mixture before dredging in the bread mixture.

Once the oil reaches 350°F, using tongs, carefully place 4-5 coated cheese sticks in the heated oil. Turn them and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until golden brown. Adjust heat as needed.

Place cooked cheese sticks on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.