Mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce are a classic appetizer featuring crispy, golden-brown breading wrapped around gooey, melted cheese. Served with a rich marinara sauce for dipping, this dish is perfect for parties, game nights, or a satisfying snack. With a crunchy exterior and a soft, cheesy center, these homemade mozzarella sticks are far better than store-bought versions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy on the outside, melty on the inside.
- Simple ingredients and easy preparation.
- Freezer-friendly—make ahead and fry when ready.
- Perfect for dipping in marinara sauce or ranch dressing.
- Better than store-bought with a fresher taste and crunchier texture.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Mozzarella cheese sticks (or block mozzarella cut into sticks)
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Regular breadcrumbs
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Directions
- Cut the mozzarella: If using a block of cheese, cut it into sticks about 3-4 inches long and ½ inch thick.
- Freeze the cheese: Place the cheese sticks on a tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from melting too quickly when fried.
- Set up a breading station:
- Place flour in one shallow bowl.
- Beat eggs in a second bowl.
- In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the cheese sticks:
- Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the beaten eggs.
- Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to coat evenly.
- Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
- Freeze again for 30 minutes to ensure the coating sticks and prevents melting while frying.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan.
- Fry the mozzarella sticks in small batches for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve immediately with marinara sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Freezing Time: 1 hour (two 30-minute intervals)
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Mozzarella Sticks: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in dried oregano, basil, or parsley for added flavor.
- Cheese Varieties: Try provolone, pepper jack, or gouda for different flavors.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- Air Fryer Version: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze breaded (uncooked) mozzarella sticks for up to 2 months. Fry or bake directly from frozen.
- Reheating:
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Avoid microwaving, as it makes the coating soggy.
FAQs
Why do my mozzarella sticks explode while frying?
Not freezing them long enough or frying at too low a temperature can cause the cheese to leak out.
Can I bake mozzarella sticks instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I make sure the coating sticks?
Double-coating with egg and breadcrumbs ensures a thick, crispy layer that stays intact.
Can I use string cheese?
Yes, mozzarella string cheese works well and makes uniform sticks.
What oil is best for frying mozzarella sticks?
Use vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for best results.
How do I make the sticks extra crispy?
Using a mix of panko and regular breadcrumbs adds extra crunch.
Can I use a different dipping sauce?
Yes, ranch, honey mustard, garlic aioli, or hot sauce work well.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, bread them in advance and store them in the freezer until ready to fry.
What is the best way to prevent sogginess?
Serve immediately after frying and avoid stacking them while cooling.
How can I add more flavor to the coating?
Mix in grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, or smoked paprika.
Conclusion
Mozzarella sticks with marinara are a timeless appetizer that combines crispy, golden-brown breading with warm, gooey cheese. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, this homemade version is far superior to store-bought options. Perfect for dipping and sharing, these mozzarella sticks will quickly become a favorite snack for any occasion!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Deep Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these homemade mozzarella sticks are the perfect cheesy snack. Served with a rich marinara sauce, they make an irresistible appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Mozzarella Sticks:
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks, cut in half
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups (480ml) vegetable oil for frying
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Coating Station:
- Place flour in one bowl.
- Beat eggs in a second bowl.
- In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and oregano.
- Coat the Mozzarella:
- Roll each mozzarella piece in flour, then dip in eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for a double layer to ensure a crispy crust.
- Place coated sticks on a tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent melting while frying.
- Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
- In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add tomato sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan.
- Fry mozzarella sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve hot with warm marinara sauce.
Notes
- Freezing before frying helps keep the cheese from leaking out.
- Can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes as a lighter alternative.
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