Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce & Creamy Dip 🍽️🧀
Ingredients:
- 1 pound mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 jar (15 oz) marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Begin by preparing your workspace: Set up two shallow dishes. In the first, combine the all-purpose flour, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly. In the second dish, whisk together the beaten eggs and milk until smooth.
2. Take a mozzarella cube and dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Next, dredge the cube in the flour mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks well. Repeat this process for all cheese cubes.
3. Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated mozzarella cubes into the skillet. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted inside. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the mozzarella sticks and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. While the mozzarella sticks are frying, prepare the creamy dip. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped parsley, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
6. To serve, arrange the crispy mozzarella sticks on a plate and offer them with the marinara sauce for dipping along with the creamy dip. Enjoy your delicious snack!