Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsMidtown TavernMozzarella Sticks Recipe

Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Inspired by Midtown Tavern
Time1h
Serves4

Served with marinara sauce.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

For the Mozzarella Sticks

For the Marinara Sauce

Method

For the Mozzarella Sticks

  1. 1

    Prepare the Coating

    In three separate shallow bowls, set up your breading station: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with bread crumbs mixed with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

  2. 2

    Bread the Cheese Sticks

    Dip each mozzarella stick first in the flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the seasoned bread crumbs. Make sure each stick is fully coated. Place the breaded sticks on a baking sheet.

  3. 3

    Freeze the Sticks

    Once all sticks are breaded, place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cheese sticks hold their shape when frying.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep frying pan or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.

  5. 5

    Fry the Cheese Sticks

    Carefully place the frozen mozzarella sticks into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

  6. 6

    Drain and Serve

    Remove the cheese sticks with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with marinara sauce.

For the Marinara Sauce

  1. 7

    Sauté the Garlic

    In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

  2. 8

    Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Add the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.

  3. 9

    Simmer the Sauce

    Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If desired, add chopped fresh basil in the last few minutes of cooking.

  4. 10

    Serve

    Once the sauce is ready, serve it warm alongside the mozzarella sticks.

More from Midtown Tavern