Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce & Creamy Dip

Table of Contents

Introduction

Crispy Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate comfort snack — golden on the outside and irresistibly gooey inside. Each stick is coated in a flavorful breadcrumb crust and fried (or air-fried) until crisp, revealing melty mozzarella that stretches beautifully with every bite. Paired with tangy homemade marinara sauce and a smooth creamy garlic dip, this recipe gives you restaurant-quality results right at home. Perfect for movie nights, game days, or party platters, these mozzarella sticks are easy to make and guaranteed to impress! The key to perfection? Double coating and freezing before frying — this prevents the cheese from oozing out and ensures the perfect crunch.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Freezing Time: 1 hour

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves: 4–5 people

Ingredients

For the Mozzarella Sticks:

12 pieces mozzarella string cheese (or mozzarella block cut into 3-inch sticks)

½ cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

2 tbsp milk (to loosen the eggs)

1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (Italian-style or panko)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning

½ tsp paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

For the Marinara Sauce:

1 tbsp olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 tsp dried basil

½ tsp dried oregano

½ tsp sugar (to balance acidity)

Instructions

Prepare the Mozzarella

Cut mozzarella sticks into halves if desired.

Freeze them for 10–15 minutes while preparing the breading station (this helps with coating).

Set Up the Breading Station

In one shallow bowl, add flour.

In another, whisk together eggs and milk.

In a third, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Bread the Mozzarella

Roll each cheese stick in flour, coating completely.

Dip into egg mixture, then coat in breadcrumb mixture.

For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more (double coating).

Arrange coated sticks on a tray lined with parchment paper.

Freeze for 1 hour minimum — this step prevents cheese leakage during frying.

Fry or Air-Fry

To Deep Fry:

Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).

Fry 3–4 sticks at a time for 1½ to 2 minutes, or until golden brown.

Remove and drain on paper towels.

To Air Fry:

Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly spray the basket with oil.

Arrange sticks in a single layer and air fry for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Remove when golden and crisp.

Make the Marinara Sauce

Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper.

Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Arrange hot mozzarella sticks on a platter.

Serve with warm marinara sauce and creamy garlic dip on the side.

Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan.

Tips for Perfect Mozzarella Sticks

Don’t skip freezing! It keeps the cheese from melting too fast.

Double-coat for a thicker, crispier crust.

Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

You can bake them too: 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes until golden.

If frying, maintain oil at 350°F — too hot will burn the coating, too cool will absorb oil.

Serving Ideas

Serve as an appetizer with marinara and creamy dip.

Pair with pizza, garlic bread, or pasta for an Italian-style feast.

For parties, serve with a trio of dips — ranch, honey mustard, and spicy ketchup.

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Mozzarella Sticks are crunchy, melty perfection — golden on the outside, gooey on the inside, and full of flavor. The combination of tangy marinara and creamy dip takes them to another level of indulgence. Whether you fry or air fry them, they’ll disappear in seconds — guaranteed! Perfect for game days, parties, or even a cozy snack night at home.