Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

What could be better than combining two of your favorite appetizers into one irresistible snack? Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate fusion food, offering the creamy, cheesy goodness of spinach dip encased in a crispy, golden-brown breading. Perfect for parties, game-day snacks, or just an indulgent treat, these mozzarella sticks take comfort food to a whole new level.

This recipe walks you through the process of creating these delightful bites from scratch, ensuring every stick is packed with flavor and the perfect cheesy pull.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Twist: Combines classic spinach dip with mozzarella sticks for a creative and delicious treat.
2. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or as an impressive appetizer.
3. Cheese Lover’s Dream: Loaded with gooey mozzarella and a flavorful spinach dip filling.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and fried just before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach Dip Filling

1. Cook the Spinach: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add fresh spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. (For frozen spinach, simply thaw and squeeze out excess water.)
2. Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the filling.

Step 2: Assemble the Mozzarella Sticks

1. Prepare the Cheese: Cut each mozzarella stick in half, creating smaller sticks.
2. Fill the Sticks: Flatten a small amount of spinach dip filling (about a teaspoon) into a thin layer and wrap it around each mozzarella stick. Make sure the stick is fully coated.
3. Chill Again: Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 1 hour. This helps prevent the cheese from leaking during frying.

Step 3: Bread the Mozzarella Sticks

1. Set Up Breading Stations:
   • Place flour in one shallow bowl.
   • Whisk eggs in a second bowl.
   • Combine breadcrumbs, panko, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
2. Bread the Sticks:
   • Roll each frozen stick in flour, ensuring it’s fully coated.
   • Dip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off.
   • Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
   • For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.

Step 4: Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

1. Heat the Oil: Fill a skillet or deep pan with about 2 inches of vegetable oil. Heat to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry in Batches: Carefully place a few mozzarella sticks into the hot oil, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Fry for 1-2 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain: Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Arrange on a Platter: Serve the spinach dip mozzarella sticks hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or fresh parsley for a decorative touch.

Tips for Perfect Mozzarella Sticks

1. Freeze Well: Freezing the sticks before frying is crucial to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.
2. Double Coat: For a thicker, crunchier crust, repeat the breading process.
3. Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain consistent frying temperature.
4. Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking.
5. Serve Immediately: These are best enjoyed hot and fresh for the ultimate cheese pull.

Variations

1. Baked Version

• Instead of frying, bake the sticks in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. Air Fryer Option

• Place breaded sticks in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

3. Gluten-Free

• Substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

4. Spicy Kick

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for heat.

Health Benefits

1. Rich in Calcium: Mozzarella provides a good dose of calcium for bone health.
2. Nutrient-Packed Spinach: High in iron, vitamins A and C, and fiber.
3. Portion Control: These bite-sized snacks are easy to enjoy in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?

It’s best to use whole mozzarella sticks for consistent texture and shape.

What if my cheese leaks out during frying?

Ensure sticks are frozen solid before frying and that the breading fully covers the cheese.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble and freeze the sticks, then fry them just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

1. Appetizer Platter: Pair with other party favorites like wings, sliders, or chips and guacamole.
2. Game-Day Snack: Serve alongside cold beverages for a crowd-pleasing spread.
3. Kids’ Party: A fun, cheesy snack that kids and adults will both love.

Conclusion

Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy goodness. With a little preparation, you can elevate your snack game and impress your guests with this unique and flavorful appetizer. Whether you’re entertaining or just treating yourself, these mozzarella sticks are a guaranteed hit!

Yield: 12 Mozzarella Sticks

Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

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What could be better than combining two of your favorite appetizers into one irresistible snack? Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate fusion food, offering the creamy, cheesy goodness of spinach dip encased in a crispy, golden-brown breading. Perfect for parties, game-day snacks, or just an indulgent treat, these mozzarella sticks take comfort food to a whole new level.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Spinach Dip Filling:
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Coating:
• 12 mozzarella cheese sticks
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spinach Dip Filling
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 the cream cheese, sour cream, sautéed spinach, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Stuff the Mozzarella Sticks
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.
3. Chill the Stuffed Mozzarella Sticks
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.
4. Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three bowls:
Bowl 1: Flour.
Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
Bowl 3: Mix Italian breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika.
5. Bread the Mozzarella Sticks
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.
6. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks
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.
7. Serve
Serve the Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks hot with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

• 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.
• Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping once.
• Customization: Add artichokes, bacon, or sun-dried tomatoes to the spinach dip for extra flavor.