These mozzarella sticks are fun, cheesy, and super easy to make! Crisp on the outside and gooey on the inside, they pair perfectly with rich marinara sauce for dipping.
Who doesn’t love a snack that makes you feel like a kid again? I can’t resist them—especially when they’re fresh out of the oven. Perfect for a quick treat during movie night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese Sticks: These are the star of the show! I love using string cheese because it’s easy to work with and gives that stretchy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try part-skim mozzarella sticks.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor, but plain breadcrumbs can also work. You could even use panko for a crunchier texture. If gluten-free is a must, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Eggs and Milk: The egg wash is crucial for the coating to stick. If you’re vegan, you can use a flax egg or a mix of water and cornstarch as a substitute.
Oil for Frying: Vegetable or canola oil is perfect here, but if you have other oils on hand, peanut oil offers a high smoke point and great flavor. Just make sure it’s suitable for frying!
How to Get the Perfect Crunch on Your Mozzarella Sticks?
Getting that golden, crispy crust is key! First, make sure to freeze the coated sticks for at least 30 minutes. This keeps the cheese from leaking out while frying. The temperature of the oil is also essential—aim for 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; this lowers the oil temperature and can lead to soggy sticks.
- Fry in small batches for about 1-2 minutes until they’re golden brown.
- Let them drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy mozzarella sticks every time! Enjoy dipping them in your delicious homemade marinara sauce!
How to Make Mozzarella Sticks With Marinara Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mozzarella Sticks:
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15-20 minutes to prep the ingredients, and then approximately 15-20 minutes more for cooking. Make sure to account for at least 30 minutes of freeze time to help those mozzarella sticks stay cheesy and intact while frying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks:
Start by unwrapping the mozzarella sticks. If you want bite-sized pieces, feel free to cut them in half. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and milk combined, and the last with a mix of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks:
Take each cheese stick and roll it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, letting any extra drip off. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it down firmly to cover well. For an extra crispy coating, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating process. Once coated, place the sticks on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This will help prevent the cheese from leaking during frying!
3. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar (if you’d like to use it). Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens up a bit. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley when it’s done.
4. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Once hot, carefully fry the frozen mozzarella sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Remember not to overcrowd the pot so that they fry evenly. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sticks and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve:
Arrange your golden mozzarella sticks on a plate and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a tasty touch. Serve immediately with your warm, homemade marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your crispy, gooey treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese for This Recipe?
Yes! While mozzarella is the classic choice for ooey-gooey texture, you can try using provolone or cheddar for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that some cheeses may melt differently.
What If I Don’t Have Italian-Style Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can use plain breadcrumbs and add a mix of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and garlic powder to give them extra flavor. Panko breadcrumbs also work great for a crunchier texture!
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking spray and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until golden, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.