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Crispy Mozzarella Sticks Recipe Easy Homemade Snack with Marinara Sauce

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A quick and easy recipe for crispy mozzarella sticks with a golden crust and gooey center, served with a tangy marinara sauce. Perfect for snack time, game nights, or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) block mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks about 3 inches long and ½ inch thick
  • ½ cup (60 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 ½ cups (150 grams) Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
  • ¼ cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • About 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 cup (240 ml) marinara sauce (jarred or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Slice mozzarella into sticks approximately 3 inches long and ½ inch thick. Place on parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Remove mozzarella sticks from freezer. Dredge each stick in flour, shake off excess, dip in eggs, then coat with breadcrumb mixture. Repeat egg and breadcrumb steps for double coating.
  4. Place breaded sticks back on parchment and freeze for another 30 minutes.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Fry mozzarella sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  7. Warm marinara sauce on stove or microwave until fragrant. Add fresh basil or red pepper flakes if desired.
  8. Serve mozzarella sticks hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

Freeze mozzarella sticks before and after breading to prevent cheese leakage. Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for best results. Double coating with egg and breadcrumbs creates a thicker, crispier crust. For a lighter version, use an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway. Avoid microwaving leftovers to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, crispy mozzarella sticks, homemade snack, fried cheese sticks, marinara sauce, easy snack, appetizer