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Crispy Mozzarella Sticks Recipe Easy Homemade Snack with Marinara Dip

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A quick and easy recipe for crispy mozzarella sticks with a gooey center, paired with a tangy homemade marinara dip. Perfect for snack time, game days, or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz (450 g) fresh mozzarella sticks or block mozzarella cut into sticks
  • 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 ½ cups (150 g) breadcrumbs (plain, Italian seasoned, or panko)
  • ¼ cup (25 g) Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • About 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable oil (canola or sunflower) for frying
  • For the marinara sauce:
  • 1 ½ cups (400 g) canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • A few fresh basil leaves, torn
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cut block mozzarella into sticks about 3 inches long and ½ inch thick if not using pre-cut sticks. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Freeze the mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet for at least 1 hour.
  3. Set up three breading stations: place flour in the first bowl, beaten eggs in the second, and mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper in the third.
  4. Dredge each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into beaten eggs, and roll in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more for extra crispiness.
  6. Place coated sticks back on parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Prepare the marinara sauce by heating olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  8. Add crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. Stir in fresh basil leaves just before serving.
  10. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor temperature.
  11. Fry mozzarella sticks in small batches for 1½ to 2 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
  12. Remove sticks with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or wire rack.
  13. Let rest for a minute before serving with warm marinara sauce.

Notes

Freezing the mozzarella sticks before and after coating is crucial to prevent cheese leakage during frying. Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for best results. Double coating with egg and breadcrumbs creates an extra crispy crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep oil temperature steady. Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier texture. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, crispy mozzarella sticks, homemade snack, marinara dip, fried cheese sticks, easy appetizer, game day snack

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/crispy-mozzarella-sticks-recipe-easy-homemade-snack-with-marinara-dip/