Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Homemade Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 10 reviews

These homemade mozzarella sticks are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making a perfect appetizer or snack. Coated in Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection, they are served hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Mozzarella Sticks

  • 16 mozzarella string cheese sticks

Breading

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 2 cups Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Frying and Serving

  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Marinara sauce, for dipping

Instructions

  1. Freeze Mozzarella Sticks: Cut mozzarella sticks in half and place them on a tray. Freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
  2. Prepare Breading Stations: Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with eggs and milk whisked together, and one with Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. First Coating: Roll each frozen mozzarella stick in flour to coat completely, then dip into the egg mixture ensuring it’s fully covered.
  4. Bread Crumb Coating: Coat each stick thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more for a thicker crust.
  5. Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C) to ensure proper frying temperature for a crispy exterior.
  6. Fry Mozzarella Sticks: Fry the coated mozzarella sticks in batches for 1 to 2 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown on all sides.
  7. Drain: Remove fried mozzarella sticks from oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  8. Serve: Serve the mozzarella sticks hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • Freezing the mozzarella sticks before breading helps prevent cheese from oozing out while frying.
  • Double coating in egg and breadcrumbs ensures extra crispiness and a thicker crust.
  • Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for proper frying and to avoid greasy sticks.
  • Use a deep fryer or a deep pot to avoid overcrowding and uneven frying.
  • Serve immediately for the best gooey texture inside.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian-American