Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara & Creamy Garlic Dip

Short Description

Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara & Creamy Garlic Dip are a quintessential appetizer, combining the gooey richness of melted mozzarella with a golden, crunchy exterior. Paired with a zesty marinara and a smooth garlic dip, these sticks offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making them a favorite at gatherings and casual meals alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Texture: Achieves a crispy outer layer while maintaining a stretchy, melted cheese center.

• Flavorful Dips: Complemented by both tangy marinara and creamy garlic sauces.

• Make-Ahead Convenience: Can be prepared in advance and stored for later use.

• Versatile Cooking Methods: Suitable for frying, baking, or air-frying.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties, game nights, or as a savory snack.recipestasteful.comSugar Spun Run

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Mozzarella Sticks:

• 1 lb mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Vegetable oil, for fryingThe Modern ProperOnion Rings & ThingsJohnny’s Fine Foods+1Allrecipes+1Fifteen Spatulas+1Johnny’s Fine Foods+1

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt to tasteCulinary Hillhow-tasty.com+1how-tasty.com+1

For the Creamy Garlic Dip:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

• Salt and pepper to tastehow-tasty.com

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:

   • In a saucepan over medium heat, warm olive oil.

   • Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

   • Stir in tomato sauce, basil, oregano, and salt.

   • Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.Onion Rings & ThingsCulinary Hill

2. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Dip:

   • In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley.

   • Mix until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste.

   • Refrigerate until ready to serve.

3. Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks:

   • Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes:

     • First dish: all-purpose flour.

     • Second dish: beaten eggs mixed with milk.

     • Third dish: a combination of Italian-style breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

   • Dredge each mozzarella cube in flour, ensuring it’s fully coated.

   • Dip the floured cheese into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.

   • Roll the cheese in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

   • For a thicker crust, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.

   • Place the breaded cheese pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

   • Freeze for at least 1 hour to firm up and prevent cheese from oozing during frying.Onion Rings & Things+1House of Nash Eats+1House of Nash Eats

4. Cook the Mozzarella Sticks:

   • In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

   • Fry the frozen mozzarella sticks in batches, avoiding overcrowding.

   • Cook until golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes.

   • Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

5. Serve:

   • Arrange the hot mozzarella sticks on a platter.

   • Serve immediately with the prepared marinara sauce and creamy garlic dip.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes

• Freezing Time: 1 hour

• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for heat.

• Herbaceous Flavor: Incorporate finely chopped fresh basil or parsley into the breadcrumb mix.

• Cheese Options: Experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for different flavors.

• Baking Method: For a lighter version, bake the breaded sticks at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cooked mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Freeze uncooked, breaded mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Reheat cooked sticks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use string cheese instead of block mozzarella?

Yes, string cheese can be a convenient alternative. Ensure they are fully frozen before breading to maintain shape during frying.

How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out during frying?

Freezing the breaded mozzarella sticks for at least an hour before frying helps maintain their shape and prevents cheese leakage.

Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara & Creamy Garlic Dip

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• Author: Olivia
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 sticks
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

These Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara and Creamy Garlic Dip are the ultimate indulgence—golden and crunchy on the outside, with gooey, stretchy cheese inside. Perfect for parties, game nights, or anytime you’re craving a cheesy snack.

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Ingredients

Mozzarella Sticks:

• 1 lb low-moisture mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch sticks

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• Vegetable oil, for fryingmortadellahead.com+5The Modern Proper+5Bon Appétit+5Sahara’s Cooking+1The Modern Proper+1Reddit+2punchfork.com+2Sugar Spun Run+2

Marinara Sauce:

• 1 1/2 cups canned crushed tomatoes

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to tasteModern Meal Makeover+2how-tasty.com+2punchfork.com+2

Creamy Garlic Dip:

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinara Sauce:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant.

2. Add crushed tomatoes and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Prepare the Creamy Garlic Dip:

1. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped parsley.

2. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.CenterCutCook

Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks:

1. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt.

2. Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.

3. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.

4. Place the breaded sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour to prevent cheese leakage during frying.nevernothungry.com+1Sahara’s Cooking+1Sahara’s CookingHouse of Nash Eats+1mortadellahead.com+1Reddit+1Sahara’s Cooking+1

Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).

2. Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.

3. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Serve:

• Arrange the hot mozzarella sticks on a platter. Serve with warm marinara sauce and chilled creamy garlic dip on the side.

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Notes

• Freezing: Freezing the breaded sticks before frying is crucial to maintain their shape and prevent cheese from oozing out.

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare and freeze the breaded sticks up to a week in advance. Fry them straight from the freezer when ready to serve.

• Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, bake the breaded sticks at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.