If you're looking for a tasty appetizer or snack that's easy to make, look no further than these delicious baked mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce. With a simple list of ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying dish.
These mozzarella sticks are made with high-quality cheese and a crispy breadcrumb coating, providing a perfect combination of textures and flavors. The homemade marinara sauce adds an extra layer of flavor and complements the cheesy goodness of the sticks.
Whether you're looking for a tasty finger food to serve at a party or a satisfying snack to enjoy on your own, these baked mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients for Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce
To make these delicious baked mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
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These ingredients will yield 12 mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce. If you need to make more, simply double the recipe accordingly.
How to Make Baked Mozzarella Sticks
Making delicious baked mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce is surprisingly easy and simple. With just a few basic ingredients, you can have a warm and gooey snack ready in no time.
Here are the step-by-step instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut 1 pound (454 g) of mozzarella cheese into sticks, approximately ½ inch (1.3 cm) thick.
- In a bowl, beat 2 eggs.
- In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup (120 g) of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs and ½ cup (50 g) of grated parmesan cheese.
- Dip each mozzarella stick first in the beaten eggs, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, using your hands to press the breadcrumbs onto the cheese to ensure a good coating.
- Place the coated cheese sticks on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overbake.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes before serving with homemade marinara dipping sauce.
Enjoy your delicious, crispy and gooey baked mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce!
Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe
What's a delicious mozzarella stick without a flavorful dipping sauce? This homemade marinara sauce is quick and easy to make, and pairs perfectly with the crispy baked sticks.
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That's it! This quick and easy homemade marinara sauce is perfect for dipping and adds an extra layer of flavor to the already delicious mozzarella sticks. Enjoy!
Tips for Making Irresistibly Crispy Baked Sticks
One of the keys to perfecting this recipe is ensuring that the cheese sticks come out crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Here are some tips to achieve that irresistible texture:
- Use seasoned breadcrumbs or add your preferred herbs and spices to the breading mixture to add extra flavor.
- Make sure to coat the cheese sticks thoroughly with the breading mixture before baking.
- For even browning, arrange the sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and avoid overcrowding them.
- Instead of using a traditional breading mixture, try using crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy crust.
- For a healthier option, spray the cheese sticks with cooking spray before baking instead of brushing them with melted butter or oil.
By using these tips and tricks, you'll have the perfect baked mozzarella sticks with a crispy exterior and a deliciously melty center.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Mozzarella Sticks
Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce are perfect as a party food or a tasty finger food for game nights. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Serve on a platter with a side of homemade marinara sauce for dipping.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil over the top for some extra color and flavor.
- Pair with a refreshing beverage such as lemonade or iced tea.
For an extra twist, try serving the mozzarella sticks with a variety of dipping sauces. Some great options include:
- Garlic aioli
- Ranch dressing
- Balsamic glaze
Get creative with your dipping sauces and experiment with different flavors to find your perfect match!
Variations and Additions to the Recipe
If you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different cheeses to use in the filling. Gouda, cheddar, or provolone would all be great choices. You can also mix in some chopped bacon, jalapenos, or herbs for added flavor.
If you want to switch up the coating, try using panko breadcrumbs or cornmeal instead of regular breadcrumbs.
For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs in the coating.
If you prefer a spicier kick to your mozzarella sticks, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
Extra Cheesy Mozzarella Sticks
To make the mozzarella sticks extra cheesy, cut the cheese sticks in half and stack them on top of each other before coating them in breadcrumbs. This will create a thicker layer of cheese for an even more delicious bite.
How to Store and Reheat Baked Mozzarella Sticks
If you have any leftover baked mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce, don't worry! They can easily be stored and reheated for later consumption.
To store the mozzarella sticks, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat them, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the sticks on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again.
Alternatively, you can reheat the sticks in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 400°F for an even crispier result. Just be sure not to overcrowd your air fryer basket!
Whether you choose to reheat them in the oven or air fryer, these delicious mozzarella sticks are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions about Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce
Here are some common questions and answers related to the recipe:
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite flavor combination. Provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack all work well in this recipe.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mozzarella sticks in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze these?
Yes, you can freeze the baked mozzarella sticks for up to 2 months. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I use a different dip besides marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even garlic aioli would all be delicious dipping options.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make these mozzarella sticks gluten-free. Just make sure to double-check all other ingredients to ensure they are also gluten-free.
Serving Size and Nutritional Information
A serving of these baked mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce typically consists of 3-4 sticks.
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving (3-4 sticks) |
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| Calories | 230-305 |
| Total Fat | 13-20g |
| Saturated Fat | 7-11g |
| Cholesterol | 40-70mg |
| Sodium | 500-700mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 15-20g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 14-21g |
Please note that nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used.
Despite their indulgent nature, these baked mozzarella sticks still offer a good source of protein and fiber. To make them slightly healthier, consider using reduced-fat cheese and serving with a side of fresh veggies.
Conclusion
These mouth-watering baked mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce are an easy and delicious appetizer or snack that will impress your guests. With a crispy exterior and gooey cheese center, they will satisfy everyone's cravings.
Follow our simple step-by-step instructions for making the mozzarella sticks and homemade marinara sauce, and don't forget to try out some of our suggested variations and additions to the recipe.
Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a tasty finger food, these baked mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients and get baking!