These crispy mozzarella sticks are fun and cheesy! They’re golden on the outside and gooey on the inside, perfect for dipping in tasty marinara sauce.
Honestly, who can resist a good cheese pull? I love munching on these while watching a movie. They’re quick to make, so I whip them up whenever I’m craving a snack!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese Sticks: Stick with string cheese for the best result. If you want a stronger flavor, you can use smoked mozzarella. Just remember, the cheese needs to have great melting qualities!
Breadcrumbs: I love using Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor. If you can’t find them, plain breadcrumbs work too. You can also make your own by toasting and blending up some day-old bread!
Eggs: Eggs help the coating stick, but if you’re looking for a vegan option, use a slurry made from ground flaxseed and water. About 1 tablespoon of flax with 3 tablespoons of water works well!
Marinara Sauce: You can use store-bought marinara for convenience. If you want a fresh twist, try adding a splash of red wine or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch on My Mozzarella Sticks?
Getting that crispy outer layer is all about the double coating and freezing. This prevents the cheese from breaking free while frying. Here’s how to achieve the best crunch:
- Start by coating the mozzarella sticks in flour, then dip them in the egg mixture and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
- For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps. This gives you a thicker crust.
- Don’t skip freezing! Place the coated sticks in the freezer for at least an hour. This helps keep the cheese inside and creates that perfect texture.
- Fry at the right temperature (350°F), ensuring the oil is hot enough to seal the coating quickly!
How to Make Mozzarella Sticks With Marinara Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mozzarella Sticks:
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
Total Time Needed:
This delightful recipe takes about 25 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying your mozzarella sticks in about an hour! Just remember to factor in some extra time for freezing the sticks before frying to ensure that perfect crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld together. If you’d like, stir in some fresh basil or parsley just before serving, and keep it warm until you’re ready to dip!
2. Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks:
If you prefer bite-sized portions, cut the mozzarella sticks in half. In a shallow bowl, place the flour. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until combined. In a third bowl, mix the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs with garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks:
One at a time, take each mozzarella stick and first coat it in flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing slightly to ensure it sticks. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps! After coating all the sticks, arrange them on a lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour to prevent the cheese from leaking during frying.
4. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Make sure you have enough oil to fully submerge the sticks. Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for about 1-2 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels to get rid of excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once fried, place the mozzarella sticks on a plate and garnish with chopped parsley for a lovely touch. Serve them hot with the warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your homemade crispy, gooey mozzarella sticks!
Indulge in the cheesy goodness and share with friends or family—if you’re feeling generous!
Can I Use Fresh Mozzarella Instead of String Cheese?
You can use fresh mozzarella, but keep in mind that it tends to be softer and more watery, which might lead to a messier fry. To use fresh mozzarella, slice it into sticks and be sure to freeze them longer to help maintain their shape while frying.
Can I Bake the Mozzarella Sticks Instead of Frying Them?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and place the coated mozzarella sticks on a greased baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown. Baking may result in a different texture but is a healthier option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover mozzarella sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore some crispiness.
What Can I Serve with the Marinara Sauce Besides Mozzarella Sticks?
The marinara sauce is versatile! You can use it as a dip for other fried snacks like zucchini sticks or serve it over pasta dishes. It also makes a great pizza sauce if you’re having a pizza night!
