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Crispy Mozzarella Sticks Recipe Easy Homemade with Marinara Sauce

crispy mozzarella sticks recipe - featured image

Crispy mozzarella sticks with a golden, crunchy exterior and gooey, stretchy cheese inside, served with a tangy marinara sauce. Perfect for quick snacks, parties, and comfort food cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces low-moisture mozzarella cheese sticks, cut into halves or thirds
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (125 grams)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten (room temperature)
  • 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs (about 200 grams), preferably Panko-style
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • About 3 cups vegetable oil (can substitute with canola or peanut oil) for frying
  • 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (350 ml), homemade or store-bought

Instructions

  1. Cut mozzarella sticks into halves or thirds if needed and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumb mixture (breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper).
  3. Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into beaten eggs, and coat thoroughly with breadcrumb mixture.
  4. Repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb coating for a second layer to create a double coating.
  5. Place coated sticks on the baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent cheese leakage during frying.
  6. Heat about 3 cups of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Fry mozzarella sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, avoiding overcrowding.
  8. Remove sticks with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  9. Warm marinara sauce on the stove or microwave until ready for dipping.
  10. Serve mozzarella sticks immediately with warm marinara sauce.

Notes

Double coating the mozzarella sticks and freezing them before frying prevents cheese leakage and ensures a crispy crust. Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) and fry in small batches for best results. For gluten-free, substitute flour and breadcrumbs with almond flour and gluten-free panko. For dairy-free, use vegan mozzarella and plant-based marinara sauce.

Nutrition

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