Name: Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 16 string cheese sticks, cut in half crosswise; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 eggs; 2 teaspoons milk; Oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil); Marinara sauce, for serving

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Introduction

Crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside, mozzarella sticks are a classic crowd-pleaser perfect for snacking or sharing. These homemade mozzarella sticks are easy to prepare and come with a delicious marinara sauce for dipping.

A close-up shot of golden-brown mozzarella sticks stacked on a white plate, each stick showing a crispy, crunchy texture with light seasoning and small green herb bits scattered on the surface. At the center top of the stack, a sprig of fresh, bright green parsley adds contrast. To the right, there is a white bowl filled with thick red marinara sauce, smooth in texture but slightly chunky on top. Small pieces of chopped herbs are sprinkled around the plate edge, all resting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 string cheese sticks, cut in half crosswise
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
2 eggs
2 teaspoons milk
Oil for frying
Salt and pepper to taste
Marinara sauce for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with Italian-style breadcrumbs mixed with salt and pepper, and one with whisked eggs combined with milk.
Step 2: Dip each cheese stick first into the flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. For a thicker coating, dip the cheese sticks into the egg again and then into the breadcrumbs once more.
Step 3: Arrange the coated cheese sticks on a parchment-lined sheet pan and freeze for at least 2 hours until solid to prevent melting during frying.
Step 4: Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
Step 5: Fry the frozen mozzarella sticks in small batches for 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Drain the fried sticks on paper towels to remove excess oil and serve warm with marinara sauce.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, double-coat the cheese sticks with egg and breadcrumbs.
Substitute Italian-style breadcrumbs with panko for a lighter crunch.
Serve with different dipping sauces like ranch or spicy marinara for variety.
Make a batch ahead and keep frozen, then fry fresh as needed.

Storage

Store any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the cheese to melt unevenly and become soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate filled with golden, crispy fried mozzarella sticks stacked in a pile. The outer layer of each mozzarella stick is textured with crunchy breading, sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. One mozzarella stick is held upright by a woman's hand, with its melted white cheese inside clearly visible where it has been bitten. To the right of the plate, there is a small white bowl filled with smooth, rich red marinara sauce, also garnished with a few bits of herbs. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake mozzarella sticks instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Place the coated sticks on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy, turning halfway through.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking while frying?

Freezing the coated sticks for at least 2 hours before frying helps the cheese stay solid and prevents it from melting too quickly and leaking out during frying.