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In the vast landscape of comfort food, few dishes evoke the same nostalgic joy as gooey mozzarella sticks. Their melty, cheesy core and crispy exterior create a delightful taste experience that has made them a beloved snack across ages and occasions. Enter the Crispy Baked Mozzarella Dippers, a modern twist on this classic favorite that elevates the original while keeping all the indulgent flavors intact. These dippers offer the same satisfying crunch and cheesy goodness, but with a healthier twist—baking instead of frying.

Crispy Baked Mozzarella Dippers

Indulge in the nostalgic joy of comfort food with Crispy Baked Mozzarella Dippers. These tasty treats offer a modern twist on classic mozzarella sticks, featuring a crunchy panko coating and gooey mozzarella, all baked for a healthier option. Perfect for any gathering or cozy night in, serve them with marinara sauce for a delightful experience. Dive into this simple recipe that promises delicious flavors and easy preparation, making snacking enjoyable and guilt-free.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese sticks

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for an extra crunch)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil (for added crispiness)

Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to catch any drips and make cleanup easier.

    Set Up the Dredging Stations: Prepare three shallow bowls for your coating process:

      - In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour.

        - In the second bowl, crack the large eggs and whisk them until they are well beaten.

          - In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper for a flavorful crunch.

            Coat the Cheese Sticks: Take a mozzarella stick and first coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured stick into the beaten eggs, making sure it is fully covered. Finally, roll the cheese stick in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure they adhere well.

              Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated mozzarella dippers on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. This spacing helps them cook evenly and achieve that desired crispiness.

                Add Crispiness: For an extra crispy finish, lightly spray the tops of the dippers with cooking spray or drizzle a small amount of olive oil over them before baking.

                  Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10-12 minutes or until the dippers are golden brown and crispy. Halfway through baking, carefully flip them over for even cooking.

                    Serve & Enjoy: Once they are baked, remove the mozzarella dippers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm alongside a generous portion of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the delightful combination of cheesy and crispy goodness!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 20 minutes | Serves 4