If you love a snack that’s irresistibly cheesy and perfectly crunchy, then you are going to adore this Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Crispy Bread Crumb Coating and Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe. These golden gems are baked to perfection, boasting a satisfyingly crisp bread crumb exterior that gives way to gooey, melty mozzarella inside. The warm marinara dipping sauce adds that classic tangy, herby finish that makes every bite a moment to savor. This recipe is a heartfelt celebration of comfort food done right, without the mess of frying but all the flavor you crave.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating the perfect batch of mozzarella sticks. Each component here plays a crucial role in the taste, texture, and overall delight of the finished dish. Simple yet essential, these ingredients come together beautifully to make your kitchen smell divine and your taste buds sing.
- 6 string cheese sticks: Mozzarella is the star here, and jalapeno varieties bring an optional kick of heat, adding character to the gooey center.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick better by adding a dry layer before egg dipping.
- 3 eggs: Beaten with water, they act as the perfect adhesive for the bread crumb coating.
- 2 tablespoons water: Lightens the egg mixture for easier dipping and more even coverage.
- 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs: Adds savory flavor and a subtle herbaceous note to the coating.
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs: Provides an extra crispy texture that makes these sticks satisfyingly crunchy.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Brings richness and helps the crumbs brown beautifully during baking.
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the cheese and coating pop.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a mild spice that balances the richness.
- 1 cup marinara or spaghetti sauce, warmed: The perfect tangy and herby dip that complements every cheesy bite.
How to Make Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Crispy Bread Crumb Coating and Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Setup
Start by lining a baking sheet with foil, then lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze while helping your mozzarella sticks bake to a gorgeous golden crisp.
Step 2: Slice the Cheese Sticks
Halve each string cheese stick crosswise so they are shorter and easier to handle. This not only makes perfect portions but also ensures thorough, even cooking throughout every bite.
Step 3: Organize Your Dredging Bowls
Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with water, and one with a mixture of seasoned bread crumbs, panko bread crumbs, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Having everything ready streamlines the coating process, making it efficient and mess-free.
Step 4: Coat Your Cheese Sticks
Begin the dredging process by rolling each cheese stick in flour, then dipping into the egg mixture, followed by the breadcrumb blend. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coatings once more for a total of five layers. Press the crumbs firmly into the cheese sticks so they stick well and form a thick, crunchy barrier to keep the cheese contained.
Step 5: Freeze for Perfect Crispiness
Place the coated sticks on the prepared baking sheet, cover, and freeze them for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. Freezing is a crucial step to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking out during baking — it locks everything in place.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
When you’re ready, heat your oven to 415°F and position the rack in the middle. Bake the frozen sticks for 10 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are crispy, golden, and heated through. The smell during baking will have you counting down the minutes!
Step 7: Serve with Warm Marinara Sauce
Remove the sticks carefully and plate them alongside your warmed marinara or spaghetti sauce. The tangy, basil-infused dip is the perfect complement, enhancing every crispy, cheesy bite.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Dig in right away for maximum gooey cheese pleasure and crisp texture. These baked mozzarella sticks are an absolute crowd-pleaser that you can feel great about serving anytime.
How to Serve Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Crispy Bread Crumb Coating and Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs elevate this classic snack beautifully. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the sticks before serving for a pop of color and an herby freshness that complements the cheese remarkably well.
Side Dishes
Pair your baked mozzarella sticks with crisp veggie sticks like celery and carrots for crunch and balance. A simple green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette or a light pasta dish can complete a satisfying meal around this appetizer.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the mozzarella sticks in mini baskets lined with parchment paper or on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small ramekins of marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli dips. It creates an inviting, shareable vibe that’s perfect for parties or casual get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If any sticks remain, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keeping the coating intact is key, so placing parchment paper between layers prevents sticking.
Freezing
You can freeze the prepared but unbaked mozzarella sticks for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them well or store in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn. When you want a quick treat, pop them right from the freezer into the oven following the baking instructions.
Reheating
To reheat leftover baked mozzarella sticks, avoid using the microwave as it can make the crust soggy. Instead, reheat in a 375°F oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. This method brings back that fresh-baked texture wonderfully.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
String cheese mozzarella melts perfectly for this recipe, but you can experiment with other mozzarella varieties. Just make sure the cheese is firm enough to handle breading and doesn’t melt too quickly to prevent excessive leakage.
Why do you freeze the coated sticks before baking?
Freezing helps solidify the cheese so that when baked, it holds its shape and melts beautifully inside without oozing out. It also helps the bread crumb coating set firmly, creating that sought-after crispy shell.
Can I make these mozzarella sticks vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute dairy-free cheese sticks and use vegan butter and egg replacements like flax eggs. Use seasoned vegan bread crumbs for a delicious plant-based alternative that still delivers on crunch and flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have panko bread crumbs?
Regular bread crumbs can work, but panko is preferred for the extra crunch. If unavailable, try crushing cornflakes or tortilla chips finely as a substitute; these add an equally delightful texture.
Is it possible to bake these without melted butter in the breadcrumb mixture?
The melted butter helps the crumbs brown and adds richness, but you can omit it if needed. The texture may be slightly less golden and crumbly, but they will still taste delicious!
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Crispy Bread Crumb Coating and Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe enough. It combines simplicity and fantastic flavor in a way that feels special every time. Whether you’re hosting friends, treating the family, or simply craving a cozy, cheesy snack, this recipe will become your go-to. So, grab those ingredients and start prepping because your next great snack obsession is just an oven away!
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Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Crispy Bread Crumb Coating and Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious baked mozzarella sticks with a crispy breadcrumb coating, perfect for a tasty appetizer or snack. These homemade mozzarella sticks are coated with a seasoned breadcrumb mix, baked until golden and crispy, and served with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 6 string cheese sticks (mozzarella and jalapeno work well)
Coating
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
For Serving
- 1 cup marinara or spaghetti sauce (warmed)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cut the cheese sticks: Halve each string cheese stick crosswise so they become shorter pieces suitable for dipping and snacking.
- Set up dredging stations: Place the all-purpose flour in a shallow bowl. In a second bowl, beat together the eggs and water. In a third shallow bowl, whisk the seasoned bread crumbs, panko bread crumbs, melted butter, kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
- Coat the cheese sticks: Roll each cheese piece first in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat dipping into the egg and breadcrumb mixtures again, pressing the breadcrumbs firmly to ensure the coating adheres well. You will apply a total of five coatings to create a thick, crispy crust.
- Freeze the coated cheese sticks: Arrange the coated sticks on the prepared baking sheet. Cover and place them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours, to help the coating set and prevent melting during baking.
- Preheat the oven: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 415°F (about 210°C) and position the rack in the middle of the oven. Remove the frozen cheese sticks from the freezer as the oven heats up.
- Bake the mozzarella sticks: Bake the sticks for 10 to 20 minutes, until they are heated through, crispy on the outside, and golden brown. Turn them halfway through baking to ensure even crispiness on all sides.
- Serve: Remove the baked mozzarella sticks from the oven and serve immediately with warm marinara or spaghetti sauce on the side for dipping.
- Enjoy your snack: Delight in your homemade baked mozzarella sticks, a perfect crispy and cheesy treat!
Notes
- Freezing the coated sticks before baking is crucial to keep the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking out during baking.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy coating.
- Feel free to add spices such as garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately for best texture and taste.
- To make it spicier, jalapeno string cheese can be used or add some chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
