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Crispy Baked Mozzarella Sticks Recipe Easy Homemade Snack with Marinara Sauce

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These crispy baked mozzarella sticks offer a perfect balance of crunchy exterior and gooey melted cheese inside, paired with a fresh homemade marinara sauce. A healthier alternative to fried snacks, they are quick, easy, and perfect for parties or movie nights.

Ingredients

  • Mozzarella Cheese Sticks – about 1 ounce (28 grams) each
  • All-Purpose Flour – ¾ cup (90 grams)
  • Large Eggs – 2, beaten
  • Italian-Style Breadcrumbs – 2 cups (180 grams), panko preferred
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup (50 grams)
  • Dried Italian Herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend) – 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Salt – ½ teaspoon
  • Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon
  • Olive Oil or Cooking Spray – for brushing or spraying
  • For the marinara sauce:
  • Canned Crushed Tomatoes – 1 can (14 oz / 400 grams)
  • Garlic Cloves – 2, minced
  • Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon
  • Dried Basil – 1 teaspoon
  • Dried Oregano – 1 teaspoon
  • Red Pepper Flakes – a pinch (optional)
  • Salt and Pepper – to taste
  • Fresh Basil Leaves – a few, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your breading stations: Set up three shallow bowls – one with ¾ cup flour, one with 2 beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs, ½ cup grated Parmesan, 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Mix well.
  2. Coat the mozzarella sticks: Dredge each stick in flour, shaking off excess, dip into the egg wash, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb step one more time for double breading.
  3. Chill the coated sticks: Place breaded sticks on a wire rack over a baking sheet or directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate uncovered for at least 30 minutes to firm up the coating.
  4. Prepare the marinara sauce: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Add crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil if desired.
  5. Bake the mozzarella sticks: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray or brush sticks with olive oil. Arrange in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Serve immediately: Let sticks cool for a minute or two and serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

Double breading and chilling the coated sticks before baking are key to preventing cheese leaks and achieving a crispy crust. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure even crisping. For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs. You can freeze breaded sticks on a tray before baking. Reheat leftovers in a toaster or conventional oven to maintain crispiness. For vegan or gluten-free options, substitute ingredients accordingly.

Nutrition

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