Introduction:
Indulge in a delightful fusion of flavors with Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks, a mouthwatering twist on the classic mozzarella sticks. These crispy delights feature a creamy spinach dip filling encased in a golden breadcrumb coating, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite. Whether served as a party appetizer, game day snack, or irresistible finger food, Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks are sure to steal the spotlight. In this article, we’ll explore how to make this crowd-pleasing snack and why it’s a must-try for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese (225 g), softened
- ½ cup spinach (115 g), cooked, drained
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (200 g)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups flour (250 g)
- 4 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs (230 g)
- Canola oil, for frying
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
Directions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, spinach, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, stirring until thoroughly mixed.
- Transfer the mixture to a square baking pan lined with parchment paper and spread the mixture evenly in the dish.
- Freeze for 30 minutes.
- Invert the frozen spinach dip onto a cutting board and remove the parchment paper.
- Slice the block into 1-centimeter strips, then slice the strips in half into sticks.
- Place the flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs into three separate bowls. Dip the spinach dip sticks into theflour, then the eggs, then the breadcrumbs, then back into the eggs, and finally back into the
- breadcrumbs. Set the breaded sticks aside on a plate.
- Heat oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded sticks for about 30 seconds to a minute, until golden brown.
- Cool, then serve with marinara sauce!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 minute | Total Time: 46 minutes
- Kcal: 220 per serving | Servings: 15 servings
Serving Tips:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance their flavor. Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a creamy spinach dip are excellent choices that complement the cheesy and crispy texture of the sticks.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese over the hot mozzarella sticks just before serving for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Appetizer Platter: Arrange the mozzarella sticks on a platter with other appetizers, such as vegetable crudités, chips and dip, or mini sliders, for a crowd-pleasing party spread.
- Party Skewers: Thread the Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks onto wooden skewers before serving for a fun and convenient way for guests to enjoy them without getting their hands messy.
- Presentation: Serve the mozzarella sticks on a decorative serving tray or plate, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges, to elevate their presentation and make them visually appealing.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: If you have leftover Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To maintain their crispiness, place a paper towel in the container to absorb any excess moisture.
- Reheating: To reheat refrigerated mozzarella sticks, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
- Freezing: While Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them for longer storage. Arrange the cooked and cooled mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating the layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 1-2 months.
- Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen mozzarella sticks, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
- Make-Ahead Option: If you’re planning to serve Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks for a party or gathering, you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until needed. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the frying or baking step, then refrigerate or freeze the assembled mozzarella sticks. Fry or bake them just before serving for a fresh and crispy texture.
FAQs:
- Can I bake Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks instead of frying them?
- Yes, you can bake the mozzarella sticks for a healthier alternative. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Can I make the spinach dip filling ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the spinach dip filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to assemble the mozzarella sticks, simply spoon the chilled filling onto the cheese sticks and proceed with the breading and frying process.
- Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen for the dip filling?
- Yes, you can use fresh spinach instead of frozen. Simply blanch the fresh spinach in boiling water for a few minutes until wilted, then drain and chop it before adding it to the dip mixture. Be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the cooked spinach before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- What dipping sauces pair well with Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks?
- Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, including marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a creamy spinach dip. Feel free to experiment with different sauces to find your favorite combination.
- Can I freeze Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks before frying them?
- Yes, you can freeze the assembled mozzarella sticks before frying them. Arrange the unbreaded sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to enjoy, fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the frying time.
Conclusion:
Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks offer a delightful combination of creamy spinach dip filling and crispy breadcrumb coating, resulting in a snack that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether enjoyed as a party appetizer, game day snack, or anytime treat, these crispy delights are sure to impress friends and family alike. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, Spinach Dip Mozzarella Sticks are a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their snacking experience. Whip up a batch of these irresistible treats and get ready to savor the deliciousness in every bite!