Crispy Mozzarella Sticks Marinara (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Frying and dipping materials
01 -
Vegetable oil, for frying
02 -
1 cup jarred marinara sauce
03 -
1/3 cup creme fraiche
04 -
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
→ Breading mixture
05 -
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
06 -
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
07 -
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
08 -
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
09 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
10 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
11 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
12 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
→ Main ingredient
13 -
3 large eggs, whisked
14 -
1-pound block mozzarella, cut into twelve 3x1/2x3/4-inch sticks
# Instructions:
01 -
Pour enough vegetable oil into a large Dutch oven or pot to fill approximately 1 1/2 inches deep. Attach a deep-fry thermometer and heat the oil over medium-high to 375°F.
02 -
Combine marinara sauce, creme fraiche, and crushed red pepper flakes in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave for 1 minute until warm. Cover and set aside.
03 -
Place a wire rack inside a baking sheet. In three wide and deep plates, set up a breading station: add flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the first plate, mix panko breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, and black pepper into the second plate, and whisk eggs in the third plate.
04 -
Coat each mozzarella stick in flour, then egg, and then the panko mixture. Repeat the egg and panko mixture step for a double breading. Transfer coated sticks to the wire rack.
05 -
Fry 4 to 5 sticks per batch in the hot oil. Avoid touching the sticks during frying. Cook for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes until golden brown and the cheese starts to melt slightly. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel-lined baking sheet.
06 -
Serve the crispy mozzarella sticks immediately with the warmed dipping sauce on the side.