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Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce
Indulge in the delightful crunch of these crispy mozzarella sticks, a classic appetizer that’s both comforting and irresistible. Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a late-night snack, these sticks are made from gooey mozzarella cheese, coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture, and served with a rich marinara sauce for the ultimate dipping experience. This dish harks back to Italian-American cuisine, where fried cheese became a beloved staple in pizzerias and trattorias across the United States.
Ingredients
- Mozzarella cheese
- 12 ounces, cut into sticks
- Egg
- 1, beaten
- All-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup
- Breadcrumbs
- 1 cup, preferably italian-style
- Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon
- Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon
- Vegetable oil
- for frying
- Marinara sauce
- 1 cup, store-bought or homemade
Instructions
- Cut the mozzarella cheese into sticks, each approximately 4 inches long and 1 inch wide.
- In a shallow bowl, beat the egg until well mixed.
- In another shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, flour, Italian seasoning, and salt, mixing well.
- Dip each mozzarella stick into the beaten egg, ensuring it's completely coated, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully covered.
- Arrange the coated mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes to firm them up.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). Make sure there's enough oil to fully submerge the sticks.
- Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the fryer to maintain proper oil temperature.
- Once fried, remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Serve the crispy mozzarella sticks hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips
- For an extra kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Try using different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
- If you want to bake them instead of frying, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Dietary Information
Servings: 4 Dish Type: Appetizer Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 1 hour Calories: 400 Fat: 20g Carbs: 40g Protein: 15g Sodium: 600mg Sugar: 4g
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