Go Back
Crispy mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce and creamy dip served on a plate.
Print Recipe

Crispy Mozzarella Sticks

Delight in these crispy mozzarella sticks served with rich marinara sauce and a creamy dip, perfect for snacking or entertaining guests.
Prep Time1 hour
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: Cheese Sticks, Crispy Snack, Finger Food, Fried Appetizer, Mozzarella Sticks
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 320kcal

Ingredients

For the Mozzarella Sticks

  • 12 pieces mozzarella string cheese sticks Creamy, stretchy, and ready to melt perfectly.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Fine and powdery, this will create the first layer of texture.
  • 2 large eggs Whipped to a frothy golden hue.
  • 2 tablespoons milk Adds richness and smoothness to the egg mixture.
  • 1.5 cups seasoned breadcrumbs Crunchy and seasoned, forming the delightful outer layer.
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder Aromatic and pungent.
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder Sweet and savory.
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano Earthy and aromatic.
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika A hint of smokiness.
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt Essential seasoning.
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper Essential seasoning.
  • 1 cup vegetable oil For frying.

For the Marinara Sauce

  • 1.5 cups canned crushed tomatoes Whole and juicy.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced Fresh and pungent.
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried basil A hint of sweetness.
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano Enhances flavor depth.
  • 0.5 teaspoon sugar Balances acidity.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds richness.

For the Creamy Dip

  • 0.5 cup mayonnaise Creamy and tangy.
  • 0.25 cup sour cream Adds tanginess.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice Brightens the dip.
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried parsley For a touch of herbal freshness.

Instructions

Preparation of Mozzarella Sticks

  • Start by cutting the mozzarella string cheese sticks in half, creating bite-sized pieces. Place them in the freezer for at least one hour.

Coating the Cheese

  • Set up three dipping stations: flour in one bowl, whisked eggs and milk in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with spices in the third. Dredge each stick in flour, dip in the egg mixture, and roll in breadcrumbs. Repeat egg and breadcrumb coating for extra crispiness.

Frying

  • Heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Carefully place mozzarella sticks in the hot oil and fry for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Making Marinara Sauce

  • Heat olive oil in a saucepan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then stir in crushed tomatoes and spices. Simmer for about 10 minutes.

Preparing Creamy Dip

  • Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, and parsley until smooth.

Serving

  • Serve the crispy mozzarella sticks hot with marinara sauce and creamy dip. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the sticks.

Notes

Ensure oil is at the right temperature. Double coating the mozzarella sticks enhances crunch.