Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce & Creamy Dip

Why I Love This Recipe

I adore this recipe for several reasons:

• Perfect Texture: The combination of a crunchy exterior and a melty, cheesy interior is irresistible.

• Versatile Dips: While marinara sauce offers a classic tang, the creamy dip adds a rich contrast, making each bite exciting.

• Crowd-Pleaser: These mozzarella sticks are always a hit at gatherings, disappearing faster than I can make them.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: I can prepare and freeze them ahead of time, ensuring a quick snack whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Mozzarella Sticks:

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

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• ¼ cup milk

• Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 1 jar (15 ounces) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For the Creamy Dip:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup sour cream

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Additional chopped parsley

Directions

1. Prepare the Breading Station: In one shallow bowl, mix flour, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

2. Bread the Mozzarella: Dip each mozzarella cube into the egg mixture, then roll it in the flour mixture. For an extra crispy coating, I like to repeat this process, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

3. Freeze the Coated Cheese: Place the breaded mozzarella cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 15–20 minutes. This step helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.

4. Heat the Oil: In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C).

5. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Fry the frozen mozzarella sticks in batches, cooking for 1–2 minutes or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

6. Prepare the Dips:

   • Marinara Sauce: Warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.

   • Creamy Dip: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, parsley, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve: Arrange the mozzarella sticks on a serving platter. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce and the creamy dip on the side. Garnish with grated Parmesan and additional parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Freezing Time: 15–20 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: Approximately 45–50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist.

• Herb-Infused: Mix dried Italian herbs into the breadcrumb coating for added flavor.

• Cheese Alternatives: Try using other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different taste profile.

• Baking Option: For a lighter version, bake the breaded mozzarella sticks at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Uncooked, breaded mozzarella sticks can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.

• Reheating: To reheat, bake the frozen mozzarella sticks at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

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

Freezing the breaded mozzarella sticks before frying helps the coating set and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking out.

Can I use string cheese instead of block mozzarella?

Yes, string cheese can be used as a convenient alternative. Just ensure each piece is well-coated and frozen before frying.

What oil is best for frying mozzarella sticks?

I prefer using vegetable or canola oil due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors, which ensure a crispy result without overpowering the taste.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! After breading, freeze the mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be fried directly from frozen when ready to serve.

Are there alternative dips I can serve with these?

Certainly! While marinara and creamy garlic dips are classic choices, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a spicy aioli make excellent alternatives.

Conclusion

These crispy mozzarella sticks, paired with tangy marinara and a creamy dip, are a delightful treat that I love making for any occasion. Their crunchy exterior and gooey center make them a favorite among friends and family. Whether I’m hosting a gathering or indulging in a personal snack, this recipe always hits the spot. Give it a try, and I’m sure you’ll find them just as irresistible as I do.

Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce & Creamy Dip

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Mia
• Total Time: 45–50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the best homemade fried mozzarella sticks with a crispy double coating, rich marinara, and zesty garlic-parsley dip – a hit at any gathering.

---

Ingredients

1 pound mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ cup panko breadcrumbs

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

2 large eggs, beaten

¼ cup milk

Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

For the Marinara Sauce:

1 jar (15 ounces) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For the Creamy Dip:

½ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup sour cream

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 clove garlic, minced

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

Grated Parmesan cheese

Additional chopped parsley

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

Prepare the Breading Station: In one bowl, mix flour, panko, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk eggs and milk.

Bread the Mozzarella: Dip each cheese cube in egg, then coat in flour mixture. Repeat for extra crispiness.

Freeze: Place coated cubes on parchment-lined tray and freeze for 15–20 minutes.

Heat Oil: In a pot, heat 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C).

Fry: Fry frozen sticks in batches for 1–2 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels.

Warm Marinara: Heat marinara in a saucepan over medium heat.

Make Creamy Dip: Mix mayo, sour cream, parsley, lemon juice, and garlic. Season to taste.

Serve: Plate mozzarella sticks with dips. Garnish with Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

Double-dipping the mozzarella cubes ensures a crispier shell.

Freezing prevents cheese leakage during frying.

Use string cheese as a convenient substitute for block mozzarella.

Reheat in the oven for best texture—avoid microwaving.

Great with alternative dips like ranch, spicy aioli, or honey mustard.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snack
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American