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
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
