Craving a snack that’s crunchy, gooey, and utterly irresistible? Look no further than these Crispy Mozzarella Sticks served with a zesty Marinara Sauce and a dreamy Creamy Dip . Whether you're hosting a game night, prepping for a party, or simply indulging in some well-deserved self-care snacking, this recipe is your golden ticket to flavor town. Ready to elevate your snack game? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Crispy Coating: Say goodbye to soggy sticks! We’re using a secret technique to ensure every bite is golden, crunchy, and satisfying.
- Melty Cheese Core: The star of the show—gooey, stretchy mozzarella that oozes out with every bite. Pure cheese heaven!
- Dual Dipping Sauces: Double the dipping means double the fun. The tangy marinara sauce adds a punch of Italian flair, while the creamy dip brings a cool, indulgent contrast.
- Easy to Make: No fancy equipment needed! Just a few simple steps, and you’ll have restaurant-quality mozzarella sticks ready in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Mozzarella Sticks:
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks (or block mozzarella cut into sticks)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika (for a hint of smokiness)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil works best)
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Dip:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley (or ½ tsp dried parsley)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Mozzarella Sticks
- Set Up Your Breading Station: Place the flour in one shallow bowl, the beaten eggs in another, and combine the panko, Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.