Get ready to indulge in a cheesy paradise! Mozzarella sticks are a classic comfort food that can be elevated to new heights with creative twists and flavors. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian-American cuisine or adventurous eaters looking to spice up your snack game, we’ve got you covered with 20 crispy mozzarella stick recipes that will satisfy your cravings.
From traditional fried mozzarella sticks served with tangy marinara sauce to innovative air-fried versions coated in panko breadcrumbs and paired with garlic butter, these mouthwatering bites are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. And don’t worry, we’ve also included gluten-free and vegan options for those with dietary restrictions.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of mozzarella sticks and explore the various ways you can transform this humble snack into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack to satisfy your cravings, or just want to level up your appetizer game, these 20 recipes are sure to hit the spot.
Stay tuned for our first recipe, where we’ll show you how to make classic fried mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce – and many more twists and turns along the way!
Classic Fried Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce
Satisfy your cravings with this simple recipe that yields crispy and delicious mozzarella sticks served with a tangy marinara sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these treats are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese balls
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each mozzarella ball into the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated mozzarella balls for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Place the fried sticks on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve with warm marinara sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Garlic Butter Coating
Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe that yields crispy and cheesy mozzarella sticks smothered in a rich garlic butter coating. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese sticks
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Dip each mozzarella stick into the beaten eggs, then roll in panko breadcrumbs until coated. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic. Spread evenly over the breaded mozzarella sticks.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks with Panko Breadcrumbs
Elevate your snack game with this easy and addictive recipe! These crispy, cheesy mozzarella sticks are a perfect fit for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 mozzarella cheese sticks
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or Italian seasoning for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a plate with parchment paper.
3. Dip each mozzarella cheese stick in the Panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat evenly.
4. Place the coated mozzarella sticks on the prepared plate, leaving some space between each stick.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the mozzarella sticks and sprinkle with salt and optional garlic powder or Italian seasoning (if using).
6. Air fry the mozzarella sticks for 3-4 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Mozzarella Sticks with Ranch Dressing
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these addictive mozzarella sticks infused with the bold flavor of jalapeños and served with a creamy ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated jalapeño peppers (about 2-3 peppers)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Ranch dressing, store-bought or homemade
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each mozzarella strip into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry coated mozzarella strips for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
4. Remove sticks from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. In a small bowl, mix together grated jalapeños and ranch dressing.
6. Serve warm mozzarella sticks with the spicy ranch dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Parmesan-Crusted Mozzarella Sticks with Basil Dip
Elevate your snack game with this crispy and creamy delight. A perfect combination of melted mozzarella, crunchy breadcrumbs, and fresh basil leaves.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz mozzarella cheese sticks
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– Basil dip (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each mozzarella stick in beaten egg and then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Basil Dip:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and serve chilled with Parmesan-Crusted Mozzarella Sticks. Enjoy!
Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks with Almond Flour
Elevate your snack game with this easy and delicious recipe for gluten-free mozzarella sticks using almond flour. These crispy, cheesy treats are perfect for parties or a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup melted mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together almond flour, Parmesan cheese, and salt.
3. Add melted mozzarella cheese and beaten egg to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Dip each piece of string cheese into the mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place the coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the sticks and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks with Blue Cheese
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and creamy mozzarella sticks infused with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken and tangy blue cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar
– 1/4 cup buffalo chicken sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
3. Add buffalo chicken sauce and blue cheese crumbles to the cheese mixture; stir until combined.
4. Dip each piece of cheese into the beaten egg and then roll in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Fry the sticks for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Herb and Garlic Mozzarella Sticks with Tomato Jam
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the creaminess of mozzarella cheese, the pungency of garlic, and the sweetness of tomato jam. This flavorful twist on traditional mozzarella sticks is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 mozzarella cheese sticks
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tomato jam (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together olive oil, garlic, parsley, and oregano.
3. Dip each mozzarella stick into the herb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden brown.
6. Serve warm with tomato jam for dipping.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pizza-Stuffed Mozzarella Sticks with Pepperoni
Elevate your snack game with this creative take on mozzarella sticks, filled with the flavors of pizza. Crunchy outside, gooey inside, and packed with pepperoni goodness – these bite-sized treats are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mozzarella cheese balls
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 8 slices pepperoni
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut each mozzarella ball in half lengthwise.
3. Place a few pieces of pepperoni inside each mozzarella half.
4. Dip the filled mozzarella halves into breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Mozzarella Sticks with Honey Sriracha
Sweet and Spicy Mozzarella Sticks with Honey Sriracha: A Twist on a Classic Snack!
These crispy mozzarella sticks get a boost of flavor from a sweet and spicy honey sriracha dipping sauce. Perfect for game day, movie night, or just a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick sticks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– Honey Sriracha Dipping Sauce (see below)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each mozzarella stick into the flour mixture, then eggs, and finally panko breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve hot with Honey Sriracha Dipping Sauce.
Honey Sriracha Dipping Sauce:
– Mix together 1/2 cup honey and 1/4 cup sriracha sauce.
– Adjust to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks with Chipotle Mayo
Elevate your snack game with this mouthwatering combination of crispy bacon, melted mozzarella, and spicy chipotle mayo. Perfect for game day gatherings or a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 mozzarella sticks
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each mozzarella stick with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
3. Place the bacon-wrapped mozzarella on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bacon is crispy.
5. While the mozzarella sticks are baking, mix chipotle peppers, mayonnaise, and lime juice in a bowl.
6. Once the mozzarella sticks are done, let them cool slightly before serving with the spicy chipotle mayo for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Truffle Oil Mozzarella Sticks with Aioli Dip
Elevate your snack game with this decadent recipe featuring crispy mozzarella sticks infused with the rich flavor of truffle oil, served alongside a creamy aioli dip.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1-inch strips
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Aioli dip ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt.
2. Dip each mozzarella strip into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured sticks in the beaten egg, then coat with truffle oil.
4. Place coated sticks on a plate or tray.
5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Aioli Dip:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Serve chilled alongside the truffle mozzarella sticks.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Everything Bagel Mozzarella Sticks with Cream Cheese Dip
Everything Bagel Mozzarella Sticks with Cream Cheese Dip: A savory twist on classic mozzarella sticks, these bite-sized treats combine the flavors of a everything bagel with melted mozzarella cheese and a tangy cream cheese dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese sticks
– 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup cream cheese softened
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Dip each mozzarella stick in the beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs mixed with everything bagel seasoning.
3. Place sticks on prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
4. While the mozzarella sticks are baking, mix softened cream cheese with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve warm mozzarella sticks with cream cheese dip.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Mozzarella Sticks with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and flavorful twist on classic mozzarella sticks. This recipe combines the richness of pesto, melted mozzarella cheese, and crispy breadsticks with a tangy sun-dried tomato sauce for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 mozzarella cheese sticks
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce (recipe below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Dip each mozzarella stick in pesto, coating evenly.
3. Roll the pesto-coated mozzarella sticks in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce:
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Serve warm with Pesto Mozzarella Sticks.
Mac and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks with BBQ Sauce
Transform classic mac and cheese into crispy mozzarella sticks with a tangy twist of BBQ sauce. These addictive bites are perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked macaroni and cheese
– 12-16 mozzarella cheese sticks
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut each mozzarella stick in half lengthwise.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked macaroni and cheese with melted butter until combined.
4. Dip each mozzarella half into the mac and cheese mixture, coating evenly.
5. Roll coated mozzarella in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and serve warm with BBQ sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Zucchini-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks with Tzatziki
Elevate your snack game with this innovative twist on classic mozzarella sticks. Thinly sliced zucchinis wrap around creamy mozzarella cheese, served with a cool and tangy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 zucchinis
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade, recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice zucchinis into thin strips.
3. Wrap each mozzarella piece with a zucchini strip, securing with toothpick if needed.
4. Dip wrapped mozzarella in egg wash, then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
5. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until crispy.
6. Serve with tzatziki sauce.
Homemade Tzatziki Sauce Recipe:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Chorizo-Stuffed Mozzarella Sticks with Salsa Verde
Elevate your mozzarella stick game by adding spicy chorizo and tangy salsa verde to the mix. This unique appetizer is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 mozzarella cheese sticks
– 1/2 cup cooked chorizo sausage, crumbled
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Salsa Verde (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together chorizo, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg.
3. Stuff each mozzarella stick with the chorizo mixture, dividing it evenly among the sticks.
4. Place the stuffed mozzarella on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Salsa Verde:
– 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Avocado and Mozzarella Sticks with Cilantro Lime Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, crunchy, and tangy recipe that combines the richness of avocado and mozzarella with the brightness of cilantro lime dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese sticks
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cilantro lime dip (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. Slice into thin strips.
3. Dip each mozzarella stick into the beaten egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
4. Place coated sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until crispy.
5. Meanwhile, prepare cilantro lime dip by mixing together 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice, and 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bruschetta Mozzarella Sticks with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your snack game with this indulgent twist on classic bruschetta: crispy mozzarella sticks served with a rich balsamic glaze and fresh basil. Perfect for movie nights or as an appetizer at your next gathering!
Ingredients:
– 12-16 mozzarella cheese balls
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each mozzarella ball into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with balsamic glaze drizzled over the top, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Loaded Nacho Mozzarella Sticks with Guacamole
Elevate your snack game with these crispy mozzarella sticks loaded with melted cheese, savory nacho toppings, and creamy guacamole. Perfect for game days, movie nights, or impromptu gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of mozzarella sticks
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Guacamole (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake mozzarella sticks according to package instructions until crispy.
3. In a saucepan, melt shredded cheddar cheese and nacho cheese sauce over low heat.
4. Add black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and cilantro. Stir until combined. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Dip baked mozzarella sticks into the cheesy mixture to coat.
6. Serve warm with guacamole and optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the ultimate cheesy delight with these 20 crispy mozzarella sticks recipes! From classic fried to air-fried, baked, and even gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone. Get creative with flavorful coatings like garlic butter, panko breadcrumbs, and parmesan crust, or add a spicy kick with jalapeño and buffalo chicken. Enjoy them with a variety of dips and sauces, such as marinara, ranch, blue cheese, chipotle mayo, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and spicy or savory and cheesy, these mozzarella sticks are sure to satisfy your cravings!
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