Gourmet Baked Cheese Sticks with Spicy Marinara

Alright, let’s dive into this "stick cheese" situation, shall we? i'm thinking about that perfect, crispy, gooey, cheesy snack. something easy enough for a weeknight netflix binge, yet fancy enough to wow your mates at a weekend kickabout.

You know? something even your nan would secretly love! i’m talking gourmet baked cheese sticks with spicy marinara , obviously.

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever wondered how to elevate stick cheese from kid's snack to gourmet treat? These baked mozzarella sticks are crispy, cheesy, and have a spicy marinara dip that'll knock your socks off!

Brief Overview

Honestly, the origins aren't exactly michelin-star. but, let's be real, everyone loves cheese sticks, right? we're just classing them up a bit.

This recipe is super easy and takes less than an hour, including chilling time. you'll get about 16 cheese stick appetizers , enough for 4 greedy people.

Or maybe just you, no judgement here!

Main Benefits

These aren't just tasty, they're baked ! that means slightly less guilt. okay, maybe a little less guilt. but they’re still cheesy goodness.

These homemade mozzarella sticks are perfect for game night, a quick snack, or even as part of a buffet. they’re one of those great easy appetizers that disappears in minutes.

And let's be real, who doesn't love classic finger foods ?

Now that you’re drooling, let's talk about what you'll need.

Gourmet Baked Cheese Sticks with Spicy Marinara Recipe Card

0.0 / 5 (0 Review)

Preparation time:50 Mins

Cooking time:15 Mins

Servings:4

Ingredients:

• 16 Mozzarella Cheese Sticks (string cheese), preferably whole milk, (approx. 450g / 16 oz)
• 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (60g), plus more for dusting
• 2 Large Eggs (approx. 100g), lightly beaten
• 1 1/2 cups Panko Breadcrumbs (120g)
• 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (30g)
• 1 tbsp Dried Italian Herb Blend
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• Cooking Spray (for baking sheet)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil (15ml)
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 (28 ounce) can Crushed Tomatoes (794g)
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp Fresh Basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

• Lightly dust the mozzarella sticks with flour.
• In three separate shallow dishes, place flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Dip each cheese stick in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated. Repeat breading process for a double layer of breading.
• Arrange breaded cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze the cheese sticks.
• Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in fresh basil (if using) at the end.
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Arrange cheese sticks on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overbake, or the cheese will melt out.
• Serve the baked cheese sticks immediately with the warm spicy marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:450

Fat:28g

Fiber:2g

Recipe Info

Category:Appetizer

Cuisine:American

Ingredients

You'll need a handful of everyday ingredients. nothing too fancy, promise. the recipe starts with 16 mozzarella cheese sticks. flour, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs for the coating.

Some parmesan, dried italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper round out the panko breaded cheese sticks . don't forget the cooking spray.

Then, for that amazing spicy marinara dip : olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes (because we like a bit of zing!), crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and fresh basil (optional, but totally worth it).

That's it. Easy peasy.

Let's Get Breading

Honestly, the key to a good baked cheese sticks is the breading. double breading, in fact! that's how we keep that cheese from escaping.

No one wants a cheese explosion in their oven.

Quick & Easy

Want fast easy finger foods ? Let’s get to the cooking. And this is one that will blow peoples minds.

Alright, let’s get cracking on this stick cheese recipe. i’m picturing a delicious, crispy, cheesy snack that’s easy enough for a tuesday night, but impressive enough for a weekend gathering.

Think of it as a posh mozzarella stick that even mary berry would approve of. (though maybe with a slightly less soggy bottom, eh?) these are truly great easy appetizers .

I’ve made these for years. honestly, everyone loves them. they're perfect as great snacks for parties too.

Ingredients & Equipment for Fab Finger Foods

Here's what you'll need to whip up these cheese stick appetizers . i'm gonna share some quality tips too, cause that's how we roll.

This recipe will show you how to make homemade mozzarella sticks that are so much better than the frozen shop-bought ones! we will be baking our cheese sticks instead of frying so it is a little more healthy.

Main Ingredients

Cheese Sticks:

• 16 Mozzarella stick cheese strings (about 450g or 16 oz ). Whole milk is best!
  • Quality Check: Aim for firm, not too soft cheese. The fresher, the better, as it melts beautifully without becoming a complete puddle.

Breading Station:

• 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour ( 60g )
• 2 Large Eggs
• 1 1/2 cups Panko Breadcrumbs ( 120g ) - Panko gives the best crunch!
• 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese ( 30g )
• 1 tbsp Dried Italian Herb Blend
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Spicy Marinara:

• 1 tbsp Olive Oil ( 15ml )
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 (28 ounce) can Crushed Tomatoes ( 794g )
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp Fresh Basil, chopped (optional)

Seasoning Notes

These combinations are key. They'll make this mozzarella sticks recipe sing!

• Italian Magic: The combo of oregano, basil, and garlic powder is what gives these panko breaded cheese sticks that lovely Italian flavour.
• Spice It Up: Red pepper flakes are essential in my book. But hey, adjust according to your tolerance for heat!
• Substitutions: Don't have Italian seasoning? Use a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. Works like a charm.

Equipment Needed

We're keeping it simple. No fancy gadgets needed for these fast easy finger foods !

• Three shallow dishes/bowls: For flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
  • Alternative: Plates work in a pinch. Honestly, I’ve even used pie dishes before.
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper: For easy cleanup. Trust me, you'll thank me later.
• Small saucepan: For the spicy marinara dip .
  • Alternative: A small frying pan will do just fine.

And that's it! seriously, this classic finger foods recipe is a breeze. my first attempt? let's just say the cheese melted everywhere .

But with a little practice, you'll be a pro in no time. we will be making baked cheese sticks . now, let's get cooking!

Okay, let's dive into making some killer stick cheese snacks. forget those sad, soggy ones you get at the pub! we’re talking proper, delicious cheese stick appetizers that will wow everyone.

Honestly, it's easier than you think, and way more satisfying. i remember once trying to make these for a footie party.

Let's just say the first batch looked like something the cat dragged in. lesson learned? follow the chilling rule!

Cooking Method: Baked Cheese Sticks - Forget Frying!

Listen, deep frying is a faff. and let's be honest, not exactly waistline-friendly. baking these bad boys is the way to go.

You still get that amazing crispy texture, but without all the extra oil. it is one of those great easy appetizers that makes you feel like a chef without the stress.

These baked cheese sticks recipe are amazing!

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

• Essential mise en place: Cut your stick cheese (aka mozzarella cheese sticks) in half for easy dipping. Get your flour, eggs, and breadcrumb mixtures ready in separate bowls. Trust me, this saves SO much time.
• Time-saving organization tips: Whisk your eggs while the oven preheats. This gets the frothy texture just right. Don’t be tempted to skip this!
• Safety reminders (if applicable): When working with raw eggs, wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. And, of course, don't leave the oven unattended. Safety first, lads and lasses!

Step-by-Step Process: Easy Peasy!

1. Lightly dust each stick cheese piece with flour.
2. Dip in beaten egg, then dredge in panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Important step : Dip again in egg then breadcrumbs for a really thick crust. This is key for preventing meltdowns!
4. Place breaded sticks on a baking sheet and freeze the sticks for 30 minutes . I swear this makes all the difference.
5. Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) .
6. Bake for 12- 15 minutes , until golden and the cheese is just starting to soften.

Pro Tips: Secrets to Success

• Expert technique: Double breading isn't just a suggestion, it's essential for keeping the cheese inside. I'm telling you, that cheese likes to run!
• Common mistake to avoid: Overbaking! Seriously, keep an eye on them. You want golden brown, not molten lava. These delicious homemade mozzarella sticks can be served along a spicy marinara dip .
• Make-ahead options: You can bread these the night before and keep them in the fridge. Just add a few minutes to the baking time. Great for those great snacks for parties . These also make fast easy finger foods and are classic finger foods .

These panko breaded cheese sticks are truly magical.

Alright, let’s dive into some crucial deets about these Gourmet Baked Cheese Sticks ! This recipe is a level up from your average mozzarella sticks recipe , trust me.

Recipe Notes: Pro Tips for Great Easy Appetizers

Let's talk serving, storage, and a few cheeky tweaks to make these cheese stick appetizers truly yours .

Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro!

Okay, so presentation matters. these baked cheese sticks ain't just for shoveling in your gob (though i wouldn’t judge!). think about arranging them artfully on a platter.

A little parsley sprig never hurt anyone, right? for dipping, our spicy marinara dip is a must. but honestly, a pesto mayo or even a garlic aioli would be banging.

These are some great snacks for parties .

Wanna go the extra mile? serve these bad boys with a simple side salad. the acidity cuts through the richness like a knife through butter.

A crisp white wine? don't mind if i do. and for a complete meal, add grilled chicken or fish!

Storage Tips: Keeping the Dream Alive

Right, so leftovers? if you somehow manage to not demolish these in one sitting... honestly, good on you for your self-control.

Refrigerate them asap. they'll keep for about 3 days. reheating is best done in the oven, not the microwave, to keep the crispness.

Freezing? it's doable, but they won't be quite as good. freeze them before baking. lay them flat on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.

Bake straight from frozen, but add a few minutes to the cooking time.

Variations: Getting Creative with your Classic Finger Foods

Fancy a change? easy peasy! go gluten-free by swapping out the breadcrumbs and flour. want to kick it up a notch? add a dash of hot sauce to the egg wash.

Boom, homemade mozzarella sticks with a fiery edge.

Think about Seasonal ingredient swaps , too! In summer, use fresh basil in your marinara, and in autumn, perhaps a sprinkle of dried sage to the Panko breaded cheese sticks .

Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff (Sort Of)

Okay, let's be real. these aren't exactly kale smoothies. but they do have protein and calcium. each serving racks up around 450 calories (give or take), so maybe don't eat the entire batch yourself… unless you’re having that kind of day.

😉

The key health benefit? joy. pure, unadulterated cheesy joy. and sometimes, that's all you need. plus, compared to deep-fried versions, these baked delights are a touch lighter on the grease.

Perfect for fast easy finger foods !

So there you have it! A few extra tips to make these stick cheese delights even more amazing. Now get in the kitchen and get cooking! You’ve got this.