Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce & Creamy Dip 

Indulge in these deliciously crispy mozzarella sticks, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer! Paired with marinara sauce and a creamy dip, they’re sure to be a hit. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients:
For the Mozzarella Sticks:

1 lb mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup milk
Oil for frying
For the Marinara Sauce:

1 jar (15 oz) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Creamy Dip:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Prepare the Dipping Stations:
Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs mixed with milk, and one with panko bread crumbs mixed with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Coat the Mozzarella Sticks:
Take each mozzarella cube and dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it in the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks. Repeat with all mozzarella cubes.
Chill the Coated Sticks:
Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while frying.
Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat oil over medium-high heat (about 350°F or 175°C). Carefully add the frozen mozzarella sticks in batches, frying until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
While the mozzarella sticks are frying, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
Make the Creamy Dip:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped parsley, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Serve:
Serve the crispy mozzarella sticks hot with marinara sauce and the creamy dip on the side. Enjoy!