Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsEast Side Mario'sMozzarella Sticks Recipe

Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Inspired by East Side Mario's
Time1h
Serves4

A stack of deep-fried and delicious, batons of cheesy goodness served with your choice of Mario's Signature Tomato or spicy Arrabbiata sauce.

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Ingredients

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For the Mozzarella Sticks

For the Dipping Sauce

Method

Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks

  1. 1

    Prep the Cheese

    Freeze the mozzarella cheese sticks for at least 1 hour to firm them up, making them easier to coat and fry.

  2. 2

    Set Up Breading Station

    In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour in the first bowl, beat the eggs in the second bowl, and combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in the third bowl.

  3. 3

    Bread the Cheese Sticks

    Coat each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere. Repeat for all cheese sticks.

  4. 4

    Double Coat (Optional)

    For extra crunch, dip each coated mozzarella stick back into the egg and then again in the breadcrumbs.

  5. 5

    Chill Again

    Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for an additional 30 minutes to help them hold their shape during frying.

Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

  1. 6

    Heat the Oil

    In a large pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature.

  2. 7

    Fry the Cheese Sticks

    Carefully add a few mozzarella sticks to the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.

  3. 8

    Drain and Cool

    Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried mozzarella sticks and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce

  1. 9

    Mix the Sauce Ingredients

    In a small saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and sugar. Stir well.

  2. 10

    Simmer the Sauce

    Heat the sauce over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and flavors meld.

Serve

  1. 11

    Plate the Sticks

    Arrange the fried mozzarella sticks on a serving platter.

  2. 12

    Serve with Sauce

    Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce on the side.

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