Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara & Creamy Garlic Dip — Melty, Crunchy, Totally Addictive!

Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara & Creamy Garlic Dip — Melty, Crunchy, Totally Addictive! 😍

These Crispy Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—crispy on the outside, gooey and stretchy on the inside, and served with not one but two delicious dipping sauces : tangy marinara and creamy garlic dip. Double-breaded for extra crunch, these mozzarella sticks are easy to prep, freezer-friendly, and perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy night in. Warning: they’re so good, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Let’s dive into how to make these addictive, melty cheese sticks step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Double-Breaded Crunch : Extra crispy coating that stays golden and firm even after frying.
2. Cheese Pull Perfection : Stretchy, melty mozzarella center is pure indulgence.
3. Two Dipping Sauces : Tangy marinara and creamy garlic dip offer variety and flavor.
4. Freezer-Friendly : Prep ahead and fry straight from frozen for convenience.
5. Crowd-Pleasing : A guaranteed hit at parties, gatherings, or family dinners.

Ingredients

(Makes 20–24 mozzarella sticks)

For the Mozzarella Sticks:

• 1 lb mozzarella cheese , cut into 1-inch thick sticks (or use string cheese for convenience )
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs , beaten
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs for a less crispy texture )
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor )
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, for a herby twist )
• Vegetable oil , for frying (or use an air fryer for a lighter option )

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade )
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional, for added flavor )
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat )

For the Creamy Garlic Dip:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 cloves garlic , minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder )
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper , to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Mozzarella Sticks

1. Cut the mozzarella cheese into 1-inch thick sticks (or use pre-cut string cheese).
2. Place the sticks on a plate or tray and freeze for 30–60 minutes . Freezing helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

1. Prepare three shallow bowls for breading:
   • Bowl 1 : Add the flour .
   • Bowl 2 : Beat the eggs .
   • Bowl 3 : Combine the panko breadcrumbs , garlic powder , and Italian seasoning (if using ). Mix well.

Step 3: Bread the Mozzarella Sticks

1. Remove the mozzarella sticks from the freezer.
2. Coat each stick in the flour , shaking off any excess.
3. Dip the floured stick into the beaten eggs , ensuring it’s fully coated.
4. Roll the stick in the breadcrumb mixture , pressing gently to adhere the crumbs.
5. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating .
6. Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a clean plate or tray. Repeat until all sticks are coated.

Step 4: Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) .
2. Carefully add a few mozzarella sticks to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 30–60 seconds per side , or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Tip : Keep an eye on them—they cook quickly due to the frozen cheese inside!
3. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauces

1. Marinara Sauce : Warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in oregano and red pepper flakes (if using ) for extra flavor.
2. Creamy Garlic Dip : In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise , sour cream , minced garlic , and lemon juice . Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the mozzarella sticks immediately while warm and gooey.
2. Pair with the marinara sauce and creamy garlic dip for dipping.

Tips for Success

1. Freeze Before Frying : Freezing ensures the cheese stays intact and doesn’t leak out during frying.
2. Use Panko Breadcrumbs : Panko creates a crispier coating than regular breadcrumbs.
3. Air Fryer Option : For a healthier version, spray the breaded sticks with cooking oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5–7 minutes , flipping halfway through.
4. Double-Coat for Extra Crispiness : The second layer of breading ensures the coating stays intact and extra crunchy.
5. Storage : Store uncooked, breaded sticks in the freezer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the cooking time.

Perfect Pairings

These Crispy Mozzarella Sticks pair beautifully with:

• Marinara Sauce : Classic and tangy, perfect for dipping.
• Creamy Garlic Dip : Rich and garlicky, a great contrast to the crispy sticks.
• Ranch Dressing : Creamy and cool, another excellent dipping option.
• Hot Honey : Drizzle over the sticks for a sweet-and-spicy twist.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water or soda for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 24 sticks, without dipping sauces)

• Calories : ~80 kcal per stick
• Protein : ~3g
• Carbohydrates : ~6g
• Fat : ~5g
• Fiber : ~0g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Mozzarella Sticks are a simple yet irresistible snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a late-night treat, or satisfying a cheesy craving, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. The combination of crispy coating and melty, stretchy cheese creates a snack that’s both comforting and exciting.

The best part? They’re endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the seasonings, experiment with dipping sauces, or even bake/air fry them for a healthier twist. So grab your mozzarella, set up your breading station, and get ready to enjoy a snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.