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Crispy Mozzarella Sticks Recipe Easy Homemade Snack with Marinara Dip

crispy mozzarella sticks - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy mozzarella sticks with a double breadcrumb coating and a tangy marinara dip, perfect for a comforting snack or party treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese works well; full-fat recommended)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil or canola oil (for frying or brushing before baking)
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Remove mozzarella sticks from packaging and pat dry with paper towels to reduce moisture (about 2 minutes).
  2. Set up dredging stations: place ½ cup flour in one bowl; beat 2 eggs with 1 tablespoon water in a second bowl; combine 1½ cups breadcrumbs, ¼ cup Parmesan, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp oregano, ½ tsp basil, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
  3. Roll each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess.
  4. Dip sticks into beaten eggs, letting excess drip off.
  5. Roll sticks thoroughly in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  6. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating steps for a double coat.
  7. Place coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
  8. For oven method: Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Arrange sticks on a greased baking sheet or wire rack, lightly spray or brush with oil. Bake 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
  9. For frying method: Heat 2 inches of oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels.
  10. Warm marinara sauce gently on stove or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
  11. Serve mozzarella sticks hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

Double coating with egg and breadcrumbs and freezing before cooking are key to preventing cheese leaks and achieving a crispy texture. Flip sticks halfway when baking for even browning. Avoid overcrowding the cooking surface. Reheat leftovers in oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, crispy snack, homemade snack, marinara dip, easy appetizer, cheesy snack, comfort food