Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce & Creamy Dip
1. Introduction
Who doesn’t love the crispy, gooey goodness of mozzarella sticks? This recipe takes the classic appetizer to the next level with a homemade marinara sauce and creamy dip. Perfect for parties, game nights, or just a fun night in, these mozzarella sticks are sure to be a hit with everyone!
2. Ingredients
- 1 package of mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 tsp of garlic powder
- 1 tsp of dried oregano
- 1 tsp of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
3. Step-by-step Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks in half to make them bite-sized.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- In another shallow dish, mix the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each mozzarella stick into the egg mixture, then into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
- Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- While the mozzarella sticks are baking, prepare the marinara sauce and creamy dip.
- For the marinara sauce, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
- For the creamy dip, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, and chopped parsley in a small bowl.
- Once the mozzarella sticks are done, serve hot with the marinara sauce and creamy dip on the side.
4. FAQs
Q: Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
A: While mozzarella cheese is the classic choice for mozzarella sticks, you can definitely experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or even brie.
Q: Can I fry the mozzarella sticks instead of baking them?
A: Yes, you can fry the mozzarella sticks in hot oil for a crispy exterior. Just make sure to fry them in small batches and drain them on paper towels before serving.
Q: Can I make the mozzarella sticks ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the mozzarella sticks ahead of time and freeze them. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
5. Conclusion
These crispy mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce and creamy dip are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a fun snack, this recipe is easy to make and delicious to eat. Try it out for your next gathering and watch them disappear!
