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Crispy Mozzarella Fries Recipe | Perfect Marinara & Garlic Aioli

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Crispy, golden mozzarella fries with a perfect cheese pull, served with a quick homemade marinara and a creamy garlic aioli. This easy, crowd-pleasing snack is ready in under 30 minutes and is a guaranteed hit for game day or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) low-moisture mozzarella block
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups (160g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425g) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup (120g) mayonnaise
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Mozzarella: Cut the mozzarella block into ½-inch thick slices, then cut those slices into ½-inch wide sticks (like thick french fries). Pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. Set Up the Dredging Station: In the first shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Dredge the Cheese: Working in batches, coat each mozzarella fry in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off, then press into the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. For extra crunch, double-dip: after panko, dip back into egg and then panko again.
  4. Chill (Optional but Recommended): Place the breaded fries on a plate or baking sheet and freeze for 15-20 minutes to help the coating set.
  5. Make the Marinara: While the fries chill, heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let bubble gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Make the Garlic Aioli: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth. Set aside.
  7. Heat the Oil: In a large pot, pour in about 2 inches of vegetable oil. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  8. Fry the Mozzarella: Carefully add 4-5 breaded mozzarella fries to the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack. Sprinkle with flaky salt immediately.
  9. Repeat: Let the oil come back to 350°F between batches. Fry the remaining fries.
  10. Serve Immediately: Pile the hot, crispy mozzarella fries onto a platter. Serve with the warm marinara and cool, creamy garlic aioli on the side for dipping.

Notes

For best results, use low-moisture mozzarella block (not fresh). Chilling the breaded fries for at least 15 minutes is crucial to prevent cheese from leaking. Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying. For an air fryer version, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway. Leftover fries can be reheated in an air fryer or oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: mozzarella fries, crispy cheese fries, mozzarella sticks, fried cheese, marinara, garlic aioli, appetizer, snack, game day food

Find it online: https://nadinetable.com/crispy-mozzarella-fries-recipe-perfect-marinara-and-garlic-aioli/