These mozzarella sticks are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making them a fantastic snack or appetizer. They pair perfectly with tasty marinara sauce for dipping!
Let’s be real, who can resist the stretch of melted cheese? I love serving these at parties because they’re always a hit. Just keep an eye on them—they disappear fast! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese Sticks: Use part-skim mozzarella for a good balance of meltiness without being too greasy. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, there are reduced-fat mozzarella sticks as well!
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add great flavor, but if you have plain breadcrumbs, simply mix in some Italian herbs or spices to jazz them up. For a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free cereal or almond flour.
Eggs: For a simple egg substitute, try using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). This is great for a vegan version!
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara works in a pinch, but homemade is easy and better! For a chunkier sauce, add diced tomatoes or let it simmer longer. Interested in a spicier sauce? Toss in some crushed red pepper or chili flakes.
How Do I Make Sure My Cheese Sticks Don’t Explode When Frying?
The key to crispy mozzarella sticks without cheese leakage is all in the prep! Start by chilling the breaded cheese sticks in the freezer for at least an hour before frying. This is super important, as it firms them up and helps prevent the cheese from melting out too quickly.
- Keep your oil at the right temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) to get that golden crunch. If you drop your sticks in and the oil fizzles softly, it’s too cool; if it bubbles aggressively, it’s too hot.
- Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding. This ensures even cooking and lets each stick get nice and crispy!
Following these tips should leave you with a plate full of delicious, gooey mozzarella sticks ready for dipping! Enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Mozzarella Sticks With Marinara Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Mozzarella Sticks:
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (about 1 oz each)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For The Marinara Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 1 hour to freeze the cheese sticks and about 20 minutes for frying and making the marinara. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 35 minutes to get delicious, crispy mozzarella sticks served with warm marinara sauce!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
Start by heating the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
2. Add the Ingredients:
Next, add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Stir everything well and let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and keep it warm while you prepare the mozzarella sticks.
3. Set Up the Breading Stations:
In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until combined. In a third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Prepare the Cheese Sticks:
Take the mozzarella sticks out of their packaging and pat them dry with paper towels to get rid of any moisture. This helps the coating stick better!
5. Breading the Cheese Sticks:
Now it’s time to bread those sticks! First, dip each mozzarella stick into the flour, making sure it’s evenly coated, and shake off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off. Finally, coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to make sure the crumbs stick well. For extra crispiness, you can dip it again in the egg and breadcrumbs!
6. Freeze the Cheese Sticks:
Place the breaded mozzarella sticks onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a tray. Pop them in the freezer for at least 1 hour. This will help them hold their shape during frying.
7. Frying Time!
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep heavy skillet or pot until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the heat by dropping a bit of breadcrumb into the oil—if it sizzles right away, you’re good to go!
8. Fry the Cheese Sticks:
Carefully add the mozzarella sticks into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 1-2 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy, cheesy mozzarella sticks immediately with the warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy this delicious treat with family and friends!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Yes, you can! While mozzarella is traditional for its great melting qualities, you could try provolone or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture and melting behavior might vary.
What Should I Do If My Breadcrumbs Are Not Sticking?
If your breadcrumbs aren’t sticking well, ensure the mozzarella sticks are dry before breading. You can also try using a thicker layer of egg mixture before coating with breadcrumbs. If all else fails, a light spray of cooking oil can help the breadcrumbs adhere better!
How Can I Make the Marinara Sauce Spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the sauce. You could also add finely diced jalapeños if you prefer a fresh kick. Just adjust to your heat preference!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store any leftovers, place the mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so in the oven or air fryer for a couple of minutes to regain their crispiness, rather than using a microwave, which can make them soggy.