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Perfect Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara

Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara
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Enjoy crispy, golden mozzarella sticks served with a vibrant marinara sauce. These are perfect for a fun snack or appetizer that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound mozzarella string cheese, cut into 3-inch pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • For the Marinara Sauce:
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the mozzarella sticks dry with paper towels.
  2. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dredge each mozzarella stick first in flour, then dip it in the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  4. Roll the egg-coated stick in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs. Place the coated sticks on a baking sheet.
  5. Repeat the coating process for a double-breaded crust if desired for extra crispiness.
  6. To make the marinara sauce: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  7. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  8. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
  10. Carefully fry the mozzarella sticks in batches, for 2-3 minutes per batch, or until golden brown and melty inside. Do not overcrowd the pot.
  11. Remove the fried mozzarella sticks with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
  12. Serve immediately with the warm marinara sauce.

Notes

  • For best results, freeze the mozzarella sticks for about 30 minutes before breading to help them hold their shape when fried.
  • Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for crispy, not greasy, mozzarella sticks.
  • Adjust seasonings in the marinara sauce to your preference.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://hungryhearld.com/mozzarella-sticks-with-marinara/