These cheesy mozzarella sticks are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making them a delightful snack or appetizer. Dipping them in warm marinara sauce is the best part!
They’re super easy to make and always a hit at parties. Personally, I can’t resist the cheesy pull when I take a bite. Just be ready for some sauce on your shirt—oops! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Sticks: Use string cheese for the best results. However, you can substitute with any mozzarella cheese you can shred or cut into sticks. For a lower-fat option, consider part-skim mozzarella.
Breading: If you need a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. Almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs work well.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan gives the best flavor, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Marinara Sauce: If you’re short on time, jarred marinara works well. You can spice it up by adding fresh herbs or extra garlic to add more flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Cheese Sticks Stay Cheesy and Don’t Leak?
The key to keeping your mozzarella sticks oozy instead of a melty mess is freezing them before frying. The cold cheese won’t melt away into the hot oil as quickly. Follow these steps for best results:
- Make sure to coat your cheese sticks thoroughly in the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
- A double dip helps create an extra barrier to hold the cheese in. This is especially useful when frying!
- Freeze the coated sticks for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for a crispy exterior and gooey interior.
Finally, fry them in hot oil and avoid crowding the pot. Frying in smaller batches allows consistent cooking, so they stay crispy and perfect every time. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Mozzarella Sticks With Marinara Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mozzarella Sticks:
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese), cut in half if desired
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes for preparation and about 30 minutes for frying and cooking the marinara. Plan ahead to freeze the mozzarella sticks for at least 1 hour. In total, you’re looking at about 2 hours, including freezing time, but the active cooking is relatively quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks:
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. Pour the flour into the first bowl. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs together with the milk until combined. In the third bowl, mix the Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the Cheese Sticks:
Take each mozzarella stick and dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess flour. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, making sure it’s nicely coated. Finish by rolling it in the breadcrumb mixture and pressing gently so it sticks. For extra crunchiness, you can dip the sticks back in the egg and breadcrumb mixture for a double coating!
3. Freeze the Coated Cheese:
Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Put them in the freezer for at least 1 hour. This freezing step is super important to ensure the coating stays on and prevents the cheese from oozing out while frying.
4. Make the Marinara Sauce:
While the sticks are freezing, let’s prepare the marinara sauce! Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Keep it warm until you’re ready to serve.
5. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
In a deep fryer or a large pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches to avoid overcrowding—this will help them fry evenly. Fry them for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let them drain on paper towels.
6. Serve:
Arrange the crispy mozzarella sticks on a serving plate, and place a bowl of warm marinara sauce in the center for dipping. Feel free to garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color. Enjoy your gooey, cheesy mozzarella sticks!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cheese for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use part-skim mozzarella cheese for a lighter option, but keep in mind that low-fat cheeses may not melt as well, so you might lose some of that gooey texture.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you need a gluten-free option, almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs work well as substitutes. You can also use crushed cornflakes or panko for a different texture.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bread the mozzarella sticks and freeze them ahead of time. Just remember to freeze them before frying. This way, you can fry them fresh when you’re ready to serve!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover mozzarella sticks, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to regain that crispy texture!