Name: Breaded Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 pieces mozzarella sticks; 2 eggs; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 cup flour; 2 cups breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Oil, for frying; 1 cup crushed tomatoes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste

If you ask me, nothing signals a great time with friends quite like a platter of golden, crispy Breaded Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce. Gooey molten cheese, a supremely crunchy coating, and a robust, tangy tomato sauce for dipping –– this dreamy snack is downright irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping for game day, or just in the mood for nostalgic comfort food, these homemade mozzarella sticks capture all the fun of your favorite appetizer spot with even better flavor and freshness. Let’s channel those snack bar vibes and create the ultimate Breaded Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce at home!

Breaded Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe really shines thanks to a handful of simple and essential ingredients. Each one adds an important layer to the final dish – from that signature stretchy cheese pull to crisply seasoned breading and the lively homemade marinara sauce for dipping.

Mozzarella sticks: The star of the show, these deliver the iconic cheese-pull and creamy flavor at the heart of every bite.
Eggs: Help the breading stick, providing a rich glue for the layers of crunch to adhere to the cheese.
Milk: Whisked with eggs, it adds moisture and helps create a smooth, cohesive coating.
Flour: Forms the first layer for the breading, creating a dry surface so everything else sticks beautifully.
Breadcrumbs: The foundation of that oh-so-crunchy outer shell – try panko for extra crispiness or your favorite regular crumbs.
Italian seasoning: Lends those herby, familiar pizzeria notes that really bring everything to life.
Garlic powder: Adds a subtle but essential punch of flavor to the breading mixture.
Salt and pepper: These basic seasonings dial up the flavor in both the coating and the sauce; don’t be shy!
Oil (for frying): Makes everything happen; use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable.
Crushed tomatoes: For the marinara sauce base, choose good-quality canned or fresh tomatoes for the brightest flavor.
Olive oil: Sautéing the garlic and tomatoes in olive oil deepens the sauce’s richness and adds classic Mediterranean notes.
Garlic (fresh): Keeps the marinara aromatic and gives it real character.

How to Make Breaded Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Mozzarella

Begin by unwrapping your mozzarella sticks. If you love dainty, bite-sized pieces, feel free to slice each stick in half. This not only creates more servings but also means even crispier exteriors per bite – always a win for party platters!

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

Grab three shallow bowls: put the flour in the first, whisk your eggs with milk in the second, and in the third mix the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Getting organized lets you move quickly and keeps those breaded mozzarella sticks looking perfect.

Step 3: Coat the Cheese

One by one, dredge each mozzarella piece in flour, dip it into the egg-milk bath, then roll in the seasoned breadcrumbs. For a shatteringly crispy bite (and to minimize cheese leaks!), repeat the process: flour, egg, and breadcrumbs again. Double breading is the secret to the ultimate crunch and gooey cheese retention.

Step 4: Freeze the Sticks

Arrange your coated sticks in a single layer on a cookie sheet and freeze for at least 30 to 40 minutes. This crucial chill time keeps the cheese from escaping during frying and ensures each stick emerges gorgeously golden and intact, not sad and empty.

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

Heat oil in a deep, sturdy pan to 350 F. Gently lower the mozzarella sticks in batches, sizzling just until the outsides are deeply golden – about 1 to 2 minutes. Resist letting them linger – you want gooey cheese inside, not molten puddles! Drain them on a wire rack to keep everything crisp, not soggy.

Step 6: Make the Marinara Sauce

While your sticks cool slightly, prepare the easy marinara: pulse your tomatoes in a blender for a smooth but rustic texture. Sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then stir in tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 10 to 15 minutes so all the flavors meld together. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

How to Serve Breaded Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce

Garnishes

Scatter a handful of finely chopped parsley or fresh basil over your platter of Breaded Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce for a pop of color and a fragrant finish. If you like a slight kick, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper works wonders too.

Side Dishes

Pair your mozzarella sticks with other favorite appetizers like crispy potato wedges, tangy pickles, or a simple green salad for freshness. The classic combination of Breaded Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce also loves the company of garlic bread and antipasto for a festive Italian-inspired spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your mozzarella sticks standing upright in a cute glass with the marinara sauce at the bottom for easy dipping. For party flair, skewer a couple of sticks with cherry tomatoes and basil leaves, or tuck them into mini paper cones so guests can grab-and-go with ease.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers (trust me, it’s rare!), let them cool completely before transferring the Breaded Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, separating layers with parchment so they don’t stick together.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked breaded mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Fry straight from frozen, just adding 30 seconds or so to the cooking time for extra insurance against cheese leaks!

Reheating

To revive that crispy, melty perfection, reheat mozzarella sticks in the oven or an air fryer at 375 F for about 5 minutes (or until heated through), turning once. This method helps restore the crunchy outer layer, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use string cheese instead of mozzarella sticks?

Absolutely! String cheese is essentially low-moisture mozzarella and works great as a substitute. Just be sure to freeze before frying, as it melts slightly faster than block mozzarella.

Is it possible to bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake breaded mozzarella sticks: arrange them on a baking rack over a sheet pan, spray with oil, and bake at 400 F for 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway. The result is a little lighter but still satisfyingly crisp!

What’s the best way to keep the breading from falling off?

Double-dipping each stick (flour, egg, breadcrumbs, repeat) along with chilling or freezing ensures the coating binds tightly to the cheese. Handling the sticks gently during frying helps too.

Can I make the marinara sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! Marinara sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Just reheat gently before serving with your Breaded Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce.

What oil is best for frying these mozzarella sticks?

Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. These ensure even browning without imparting unwanted flavors to your irresistible cheesy snack.

Final Thoughts

I can honestly say Breaded Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. There’s nothing quite like the joy of stretchy cheese wrapped in a crackling, flavorful crust, ready for dunking in homemade sauce. Go ahead and give it a try – I promise, these will disappear faster than you can say “just one more!”