Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Spinach Dip Filling
01 -
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
02 -
½ cup cream cheese, softened
03 -
½ cup sour cream
04 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
05 -
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 -
1 garlic clove, minced
07 -
½ teaspoon onion powder
08 -
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
09 -
Salt to taste
10 -
Pepper to taste
→ For the Coating
11 -
12 mozzarella cheese sticks
12 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
13 -
2 large eggs, beaten
14 -
1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
15 -
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
16 -
½ teaspoon garlic powder
17 -
½ teaspoon paprika
18 -
Oil for frying
# Instructions:
01 -
In a medium skillet, sauté the chopped spinach over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, sautéed spinach, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
02 -
Slice each mozzarella stick lengthwise down the center, but don’t cut all the way through. Fill each sliced mozzarella stick with a small spoonful of the spinach dip mixture. Press the stick back together, ensuring the filling stays inside.
03 -
Place the stuffed mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 1 hour to firm up. This prevents them from leaking during frying.
04 -
Set up three bowls: Bowl 1: Flour. Bowl 2: Beaten eggs. Bowl 3: Mix Italian breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika.
05 -
Coat each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally roll in the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for a thicker crust. Return the coated sticks to the freezer for 15 minutes to ensure the breading adheres.
06 -
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks in small batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
07 -
Serve the Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks hot with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
# Notes:
01 -
Baking Option: For a healthier version, bake at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 10-12 minutes or until golden, flipping halfway through.
02 -
Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping once.
03 -
Customization: Add artichokes, bacon, or sun-dried tomatoes to the spinach dip for extra flavor.