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Crispy Mozzarella Stick Dippers: Easy Super Bowl Snack with 3 Sauces

crispy mozzarella stick dippers - featured image

These crispy mozzarella stick dippers are the ultimate game day snack, featuring a double-breaded, golden crust and gooey cheese center. Served with three easy dipping sauces, they’re a crowd-pleaser perfect for parties or comfort food cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks (12 oz)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups)
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional, for ranch)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice

Instructions

  1. Slice each mozzarella stick in half to make 24 short sticks. Pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with mixed breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Roll each mozzarella stick in flour, dip in egg, then roll in breadcrumb mixture. Repeat egg and breadcrumb step for extra crunch, pressing crumbs on firmly.
  4. Place breaded sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 20-30 minutes.
  5. Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350Β°F.
  6. Fry mozzarella sticks in batches (6-8 at a time) for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towels to cool for 1 minute.
  7. For marinara sauce: Heat in a small saucepan or microwave until warm.
  8. For ranch dip: Stir parsley and smoked paprika (if using) into ranch dressing.
  9. For chipotle ketchup: Mix ketchup, chipotle chili powder, and lime juice in a bowl.
  10. Serve mozzarella stick dippers hot with dipping sauces. Garnish with extra Parmesan or parsley if desired.

Notes

Double breading and freezing are key for crispiness and preventing cheese leaks. For gluten-free or dairy-free versions, substitute flour, breadcrumbs, and cheese as needed. Air-frying and baking are alternative methods. Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying, and let sticks rest briefly before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, Super Bowl snack, party appetizer, fried cheese, dipping sauces, game day food, comfort food, easy appetizer, kid-friendly, vegetarian