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Gooey Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara: 4 Easy Tips

Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara
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Crispy fried mozzarella sticks served with a vibrant marinara sauce, perfect for a delicious snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch sticks
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • For Marinara Sauce:
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • Pinch of sugar (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the mozzarella sticks dry with paper towels.
  2. In three shallow dishes, set up your breading station: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and pepper.
  3. Dredge each mozzarella stick first in flour, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  4. Dip the floured stick into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off.
  5. Coat the stick thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the crumbs adhere.
  6. Place the breaded sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during frying.
  7. While the mozzarella sticks are freezing, prepare the marinara sauce. In a small saucepan, combine tomato sauce, minced garlic, oregano, basil, and sugar (if using).
  8. Simmer the marinara sauce over low heat for at least 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
  10. Carefully add a few frozen mozzarella sticks to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
  11. Fry for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
  12. Remove the fried mozzarella sticks with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  13. Serve immediately with the warm marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • For an extra crispy coating, you can double-bread the mozzarella sticks: after the first breading, dip them in egg again and then in breadcrumbs.
  • If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, pre-shredded mozzarella can be used, but it might not hold together as well.
  • Adjust the seasonings in the marinara sauce to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little heat.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://epicureempire.com/mozzarella-sticks-marinara-easy-tips/