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Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce & Creamy Dip

Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce & Creamy Dip

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  • Author: Ikram
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour freezing)
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 24 mozzarella sticks 1x
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Deep Frying
  • Cuisine: American, Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Golden, crispy, and filled with gooey melted cheese, these homemade mozzarella sticks are a crowd-pleasing appetizer! Served with a rich marinara sauce and a creamy dip, they are perfect for game nights, parties, or a delicious snack.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Mozzarella Sticks:

  • 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks (cut in half for smaller sticks)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Marinara Sauce:

  • 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

For the Creamy Dip:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks

  1. Cut each mozzarella string cheese in half for smaller sticks.
  2. Place the flour in one shallow bowl.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
  4. In a third bowl, mix Italian breadcrumbs, panko, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and Parmesan (if using).

Step 2: Coat the Mozzarella Sticks

  1. Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess.
  2. Dip into the egg mixture, coating evenly.
  3. Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Repeat steps 2-3 for double coating (important for extra crispiness).
  5. Place coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

  1. Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
  3. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Marinara Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar.
  4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Dip

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  2. Chill until ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

  • Serve the hot mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce and creamy dip. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Freezing is essential to prevent cheese from melting too fast when frying.
  • For an oven-baked version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes.
  • Air fryer method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 mozzarella sticks
  • Calories: ~350 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Find it online: https://www.easyrecipesflash.com/crispy-mozzarella-sticks-with-marinara-sauce-creamy-dip/