These mozzarella sticks are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making them a perfect snack or appetizer. Dip them in rich marinara sauce for a tasty treat!
Who can resist that cheesy pull? I love serving these at game nights. They disappear faster than you can say “cheese!” 🧀 Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: Using mozzarella sticks (string cheese) gives a perfect melt. For a different flavor, try using provolone or a blend of cheeses. Just ensure they melt well!
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add flavor to the crust. You could use plain breadcrumbs, Panko for extra crunch, or even crushed cornflakes if you need a gluten-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds richness to the crust. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or leave it out entirely if you’re dairy-free.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best, but you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour if needed. It helps the coating stick to the cheese.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara is fine, but nothing beats homemade! You can also use pizza sauce or any tomato-based sauce you love.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunchy Coating?
The coating is a key part of this recipe. To achieve that crispy texture, follow these steps:
- Set up a breading station with flour, egg mixture, and breadcrumbs.
- Be thorough while coating: After the first breadcrumb dip, go back into the egg and then into the breadcrumbs again for a thicker layer.
- Freezing the sticks for at least an hour is crucial. This prevents the cheese from leaking out while frying.
- Heat your oil to the right temperature (350°F). If it’s too low, the cheese will melt before the coating gets crispy; too high, and the coating burns without cooking through.
Fry in small batches to avoid crowding. This gives each stick space to cook evenly, leading to that perfect golden crunch!
Mozzarella Sticks With Marinara Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Mozzarella Sticks:
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese), cut in half
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Marinara Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. Plus, don’t forget to allow at least 1 hour to freeze the mozzarella sticks before frying to ensure they cook perfectly. Altogether, you’ll be enjoying your cheesy snacks in about 1 hour and 35 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinara Sauce:
Start by making the marinara sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
2. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. After simmering, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Keep it warm while you prepare the mozzarella sticks.
3. Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks:
Now, let’s get the mozzarella sticks ready. Set up three shallow bowls. Put the flour in the first bowl. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until blended. In the third bowl, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Coat the Cheese:
For each mozzarella stick, dip it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, coat it in the egg mixture, and then cover it with the breadcrumb mixture. If you want a thicker crust, repeat the process by dipping it again into the egg and then back into the breadcrumbs.
5. Freeze the Coated Sticks:
Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for at least 1 hour. This is an important step to keep the cheese from melting too fast while frying.
6. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
When you’re ready to fry, heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to fully cover the sticks. Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for about 1-2 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan, or they won’t cook evenly. Carefully remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hot mozzarella sticks garnished with chopped parsley, if desired, alongside the warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy treat!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cheese for This Recipe?
While you can use low-fat cheese, keep in mind that the texture and melting quality might not be the same as regular mozzarella. Low-fat cheese can sometimes result in a less gooey interior, but it’s a healthier option if that’s what you prefer!
Can I Make Mozzarella Sticks in the Air Fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Less oil is required, making this a healthier alternative.
How Do I Store Leftover Mozzarella Sticks?
Store any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes or air fry them for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Freeze Uncooked Mozzarella Sticks?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked mozzarella sticks! After breading them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
