These Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce sticks transform simple ingredients into an irresistible appetizer that combines the comfort of melted cheese with the satisfaction of a crispy crust. The dual dipping sauces add an extra layer of sophistication, making this recipe perfect for entertaining or when you want to elevate your snacking game. The beauty lies in its versatility – serve them as party appetizers, game day snacks, or a fun weekend cooking project.
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Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce & Creamy Dip: A Perfect Party Pleaser
The irresistible combination of Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce, golden-brown coating giving way to gloriously melted cheese has made mozzarella sticks a beloved comfort food classic. This recipe elevates the traditional mozzarella stick by pairing it with both a vibrant marinara sauce and a creamy dip, offering a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Perfect for game days, casual gatherings, or simply as an indulgent snack, these homemade mozzarella sticks deliver restaurant-quality results right from your kitchen.
A Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer That Never Fails to Impress
The double-breading technique ensures a perfectly Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce exterior while maintaining that coveted cheese pull that makes mozzarella sticks so Instagram-worthy. Unlike store-bought versions, these homemade delights allow you to control the quality of ingredients and achieve the perfect balance of seasoning.
The accompanying duo of dipping sauces Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce a classic marinara and a creamy herb-infused dip – provides versatility and ensures every bite is an adventure in flavor. Making these at home also means you can enjoy them fresh and piping hot, exactly when that cheese-pull craving strikes. Plus, the preparation process can be a fun cooking activity that brings family or friends together in the kitchen.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store prepared but uncooked mozzarella sticks for up to 24 hours
- Freezer: Freeze breaded, uncooked sticks for up to 3 months
- Sauces can be refrigerated separately for up to 5 days
PIN
Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce
Equipment
- 3 shallow bowls for breading station
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Paper towels
- Small saucepans for dips
Ingredients
- For the Mozzarella Sticks:
- 16 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt to taste
- For the Marinara Sauce:
- 1 can 14 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Creamy Dip:
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs parsley, chives, dill
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preparation (2 hours before cooking):
- Cut mozzarella sticks in half if desired
- Set up breading station with three shallow bowls
- Mix flour with salt in first bowl
- Whisk eggs and milk in second bowl
- Combine breadcrumbs, panko, and seasonings in third bowl
- Breading Process:
- Coat each cheese stick in flour
- Dip in egg mixture
- Roll in breadcrumb mixture
- Repeat entire process for double coating
- Place on parchment-lined baking sheet
- Freeze for at least 1 hour
- Sauce Preparation:
- Marinara: Simmer all ingredients for 15 minutes
- Creamy Dip: Mix all ingredients, refrigerate
- Cooking:
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C)
- Fry in batches for 1-2 minutes until golden
- Drain on paper towels
- Serve immediately with both sauces
Notes
Don’t skip the freezing step – it ensures the coating stays intact
Maintain oil temperature between batches
Best served immediately while cheese is hot and melty
Leftover sauces can be used for pasta, sandwiches, or other dips
