Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Spicy Chilli Tomato Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside, mozzarella sticks are a beloved appetizer that never fails to impress. Paired with a spicy chilli tomato sauce, this dish delivers a perfect balance of creamy and tangy flavors. It’s ideal for sharing or enjoying as a tasty snack.

Ingredients

• 12 mozzarella sticks
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
• 1 fresh chilli, finely chopped
• 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the dipping sauce by combining the chopped tomatoes and chilli in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens, about 10–15 minutes. Set aside.
2. Step 2: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
3. Step 3: Coat each mozzarella stick first in flour, then dip into the eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumbs to fully cover. For an extra crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps once more.
4. Step 4: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated mozzarella sticks in batches, avoiding overcrowding, until golden brown and crispy, about 1–2 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, or the cheese may leak.
5. Step 5: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with the homemade chilli tomato sauce.

Tips & Variations

• Freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks for 30 minutes before frying to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking.
• For extra flavor, add Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the breadcrumbs.
• Swap fresh chilli for a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer milder heat in the sauce.
• Try serving with marinara or ranch dressing as an alternative dip.

Storage

Best enjoyed fresh, mozzarella sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 minutes to crisp them up. Avoid microwaving, as this can lead to sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake mozzarella sticks instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them for a healthier option. Arrange the breaded sticks on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through until golden and melted inside.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during frying?

Freezing the breaded mozzarella sticks for at least 30 minutes before frying helps the coating set and reduces the risk of cheese oozing out. Also, avoid frying at too high a temperature or for too long.

Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Spicy Chilli Tomato Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 125 reviews

Crispy golden mozzarella sticks coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust, fried to perfection and served with a spicy chili tomato sauce for dipping. This appetizer is a delightful combination of gooey melted cheese and tangy, flavorful sauce that adds a fiery kick.

• Author: Lila
• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 mozzarella sticks 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Mozzarella Sticks

• 12 mozzarella sticks (about 28g each)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 cups)

Chili Tomato Sauce

• 2 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 small red chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Instructions

1. Prepare the mozzarella sticks: Pat the mozzarella sticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the coating adhere better.
2. Coat with flour: Place the flour in a shallow dish. Roll each mozzarella stick in the flour until fully coated, shaking off any excess.
3. Dip in egg wash: Beat the eggs in a bowl. Dip each floured mozzarella stick into the beaten eggs, making sure it is completely covered.
4. Coat with breadcrumbs: Transfer the breadcrumbs to another shallow dish. Roll each egg-coated mozzarella stick in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. For extra crispiness and to prevent cheese from leaking, dip the sticks again in the egg and breadcrumb layers for a double coat if desired. Chill coated sticks in the freezer for 30 minutes before frying to maintain shape.
5. Heat oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or pot, enough to submerge the mozzarella sticks entirely. Heat the oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry mozzarella sticks: Carefully place the coated mozzarella sticks into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain on paper towels.
7. Make chili tomato sauce: While frying, heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped chili, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, and sugar. Cook down for 8-10 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve: Plate the hot mozzarella sticks alongside a bowl of the warm chili tomato sauce. Enjoy immediately while the cheese is gooey and the crust is crunchy.

Notes

• Double coating the mozzarella sticks helps prevent cheese leakage while frying.
• Freezing coated sticks before frying helps maintain their shape and prevents melting too quickly.
• Adjust the amount of chili in the sauce based on your preferred spice level.
• Use fresh mozzarella cheese sticks for best melting texture.
• Oil temperature is critical; too low and sticks will absorb oil and be greasy, too high and coating may burn before cheese melts.

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, fried cheese sticks, appetizer, chili tomato sauce, crispy mozzarella, snack, Italian-American