Mozzarella sticks are an ideally delicious and popular snack or appetizer. They are mostly loved by kids and adults alike and make a great inclusion to any party or gathering.
These sticks are crispy, gooey, and absolutely delicious. Whether you are hosting a party or just having a snack for yourself, these cheesy sticks are always an excellent choice.
But have you ever wondered what to serve with mozzarella sticks to make them even better?
You can include some extra flavor and texture to your mozzarella sticks with some simple side dishes.
In this blog post, we will share some of our favorite side dishes that are easy and quick to prepare and will take your mozzarella sticks to the next level.
What is a mozzarella stick? What does mozzarella stick taste like?
A mozzarella stick is a type of fried snack or appetizer made with cheese.
It typically consists of a long, thin piece of mozzarella cheese that has been battered and then fried until golden brown and crispy.
Mozzarella sticks have a unique, mild, salty taste with a soft and creamy texture inside. They are often served with a dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
The flavor and texture of mozzarella sticks make them an incredibly popular choice for snacking or appetizers at parties and gatherings.
Best Sides to Serve with mozzarella sticks
1. Marinara Sauce
Marinara Sauce is a classic dipping sauce that is usually served with mozzarella sticks. It’s a simple sauce made of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
You can make it from scratch or buy a jar of your favorite brand.
2. Garlic Bread
Garlic Bread is an excellent option because it’s easy to prepare, and the garlic flavor goes exceptionally well with the cheesy flavor of mozzarella sticks.
3. Caesar Salad
A fresh and healthy salad is an excellent complement to mozzarella sticks.
Caesar salad is a great option because it’s easy and quick to prepare, plus the tangy dressing is a great contrast to the rich mozzarella sticks.
4. Fries
French fries are an ideal classic side dish for anything deep-fried. You can make your own fries or buy a bag of frozen fries and bake them in the oven.
5. Onion Rings
Onion rings are another popular side dish to serve with mozzarella sticks.
They both have a crispy outer layer and a soft inner layer, which makes them a perfect combination.
Discover More: 20 Best and delicious Condiment for Onion Rings – Must try
6. Bruschetta
Bruschetta is an Italian appetizer made of bread, tomatoes, and basil. The juicy tomatoes and fresh herbs will lighten up the heavy flavor of mozzarella sticks.
7. Nachos
If you are looking for a more filling snack, you can serve your mozzarella sticks with some nachos.
You can include some salsa, guacamole, or sour cream in your nachos for extra flavor.
8. Caprese Salad
Caprese Salad is a colorful and refreshing salad made of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves.
It’s a great way to use leftover mozzarella cheese and add some extra color to your plate.
9. Pesto Pasta
This is another Italian classic that goes exceptionally well with mozzarella sticks.
You can use any pasta shape you like and toss it in some homemade or store-bought pesto.
10. Chicken Wings
If you want to take your mozzarella sticks to the next level, you can serve them with some spicy chicken wings.
The spicy and cheesy flavors complement each other perfectly.
11. Ranch dressing
A side of ranch dressing is a popular dip with mozzarella sticks. The cool and creamy dressing elevates the saltiness of the cheese, giving it a fantastic taste.
It’s easy to prepare, and you could even add some herbs to suit your liking.
12. Pizza
Both pizza and mozzarella sticks are made with cheese; hence, it’s no surprise that this delicious dish pairs well with little cheesy snacks.
You could order a pizza, prepare it at home, or buy a frozen pizza from the grocery store.
13. Meatballs
Meatballs are a fantastic side to serve with mozzarella sticks. You could prepare the meatballs at home or purchase them from the store.
They are a crowd-pleaser and work perfectly due to their tenderness and savory taste.
14. Fried calamari
Mozzarella sticks and fried calamari are a perfect match. The crispy and savory flavors of the calamari are complimented by the melted cheese of the mozzarella sticks.
It’s a fantastic dish to serve at any party or gathering.
Try more: What To Serve With Fried Calamari – 19 Quick And Amazing Dishes
15. Cheeseburger Sliders
Cheeseburger sliders are a fun and delicious option to pair with mozzarella sticks.
They offer a mix of savory, cheesy goodness in every bite. You could prepare the cheeseburger sliders at home or purchase them from the store.
Main Course to eat with mozzarella sticks
One of the best main courses to enjoy with mozzarella sticks is a classic Italian dish, such as Spaghetti Bolognese.
This hearty dish is prepared with a tomato-based sauce, ground beef, and herbs like oregano and basil that all combine to make a flavorful and filling meal.
Mozzarella sticks are the perfect accompaniment to balance out the robust flavors of Spaghetti Bolognese.
The creamy texture of the cheese pairs wonderfully with the savory notes from the herbs and spices in the sauce, providing an incredibly delicious contrast in textures and flavor.
Serve your Spaghetti Bolognese alongside freshly cooked mozzarella sticks for an Italian feast that will please any crowd!
5 best sauces to serve with mozzarella sticks
1. Marinara Sauce
A classic Italian favorite, marinara sauce is a great choice for mozzarella sticks.
Made from tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs like oregano and basil, this simple but flavorful sauce complements the flavor of the cheese sticks perfectly. Plus, it’s easy to find in most grocery stores.
2. Ranch Dressing
A creamy ranch dressing is a delicious accompaniment to fried cheese sticks.
This cool and tangy dip adds a bit of zing to the otherwise mild flavor of the sticks and makes dipping even more fun!
3. BBQ Sauce
Who doesn’t love BBQ sauce? This smoky, sweet condiment is perfect for mozzarella sticks as it brings out the savory, cheesy flavors while adding a touch of sweetness thanks to its hint of molasses or brown sugar.
4. Buffalo Sauce
If you prefer something with a little kick, buffalo sauce is an excellent choice for mozzarella sticks.
Tangy and spicy with just enough heat to make things interesting without overwhelming the taste buds, this popular sauce can liven up any plate of cheese sticks!
5. Honey Mustard
A delicious combination of sweet honey and sharp mustard gives honey mustard its unique flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with mozzarella sticks.
Rich in taste yet not too overpowering for the delicate cheese flavor, this condiment is sure to please even picky eaters!
Appetizers to serve with mozzarella sticks
1. Fried Calamari
A classic favorite, fried calamari is the perfect appetizer to pair with mozzarella sticks.
The crunchy texture of the deep-fried squid complements the gooey cheese inside the mozzarella stick.
Serve with a side of marinara and lemon wedges for extra flavor!
2. Caprese Skewers
Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella combine to create an Italian classic that’s light and flavorful.
These skewers are easy to make and look attractive on any plate. Top with olive oil and balsamic glaze for extra zesty flavor!
3. Bruschetta
Bruschetta is an ideal classic Italian dish that is a crowd-pleaser, blending fresh tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs on top of lightly toasted bread slices.
Add a little mozzarella cheese for an extra cheesy bite that’s sure to be delicious with your mozzarella sticks!
4. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
For a savory start to your meal, serve up some roasted red pepper hummus with warm pita chips or sliced veggies. (Recipe)
The creamy texture of the hummus will balance out the crunchiness of your mozzarella sticks, making it an enjoyable appetizer for all your guests!
5. Artichoke Dip
Creamy artichoke dip is always a hit when it comes to appetizers—it’s simple yet flavorful enough that even picky eaters will enjoy it!
Layer this dip in small ramekins or dishes alongside your mozzarella sticks for an impressive presentation that will be sure to please everyone at the table!
6. Crab Cakes
Give your guests something a bit more complex than traditional appetizers by serving up some delicious crab cakes alongside their mozzarella sticks!
Whether you opt for store-bought or homemade versions of these mini cakes, they’ll be sure to be a hit among guests looking for something more gourmet on their plate!
7. Baked Brie
Rich and creamy brie pairs perfectly with sweet sauces such as honey or raspberry jam; it also makes the perfect accompaniment to crispy mozzarella sticks when served warm from the oven.
For added flavor, add some dried fruits or nuts before baking—your taste buds won’t regret it!
Find Out More: 22 Best Vegetable to serve with Baked Brie
What else is served with mozzarella sticks
Drinks to pair with mozzarella sticks
1. Craft Beer
Craft beers are a great choice for pairing with mozzarella sticks, as the variety of flavors can bring out the cheesy goodness in the dish.
For an extra kick, opt for a hoppy IPA or a dark stout.
2. Chardonnay
The buttery notes of this white wine make it a natural companion to mozzarella sticks.
It also has enough acidity to balance out the richness of the cheese without overpowering it.
3. Merlot
This red wine has just the right amount of fruitiness and tannins that make it an ideal match with mozzarella sticks.
Its smooth texture is complementary to the creamy cheese, and its earthy flavor will help bring out all the subtle nuances of your dish.
4. Sparkling Cocktail
A sparkling cocktail like a Mimosa or Bellini would be light and refreshing against the fried cheese and salty accompaniments often found with mozzarella sticks.
The bubbly sweetness helps cut through all that grease, too!
5. Margarita
For those who enjoy tequila, a classic margarita is another great option to pair with mozzarella sticks.
The spice from the agave-based spirit adds an unexpected twist to this classic bar snack while still accentuating all that melty cheese goodness from within!
6. Bloody Mary
Bloody Mary might not be an obvious choice, but this savory tomato-based drink makes for an excellent companion to mozzarella sticks!
The spicy kick complements the saltiness from both elements, while the acidity helps keep everything balanced – delicious!
7. Non-Alcoholic Beverage
If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, try pairing your mozzarella sticks with a fruit juice or fruity soda such as Fresca or Squirt – both go very well with this particular dish!
For something more substantial, reach for a root beer float instead – it’s sure to hit the spot!
Desserts to go with mozzarella sticks
1. Fried Ice Cream
A delicious combination of crunchy fried breading and creamy ice cream, fried ice cream is a decadent dessert to pair with mozzarella sticks.
The contrast between the savory cheese flavor of mozzarella sticks and the sweet, cool taste of the fried ice cream creates an exquisite experience for your taste buds.
2. Chocolate Lava Cake
If you’re looking for something warm and indulgent, try pairing mozzarella sticks with a chocolate lava cake.
The molten center of this rich chocolate cake will go perfectly with the melty cheese sticks, creating an irresistible combination that’s sure to please any palate.
3. Cannoli
Another classic Italian dessert that pairs wonderfully with mozzarella sticks is cannoli.
This light, crispy pastry is filled with creamy ricotta, mascarpone, or lemon custard that complements the cheesy flavor of the mozzarella stick perfectly.
4. Tiramisu
For those who prefer a lighter dessert after their mozzarella stick snack, tiramisu is perfect. (Recipe)
It has a combination of espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with mascarpone cheese and topped with cocoa powder that provides just enough sweetness to offset the savory flavors from the cheese sticks without being too heavy or cloying.
5. Apple Pie à la Mode
If you’re in the mood for something more traditional yet still sweet enough to stand up to your savory appetizer, apple pie à la mode is always a crowd-pleaser when paired with mozzarella sticks.
The tart apples combine nicely with cool ice cream to create a balanced flavor that accompanies well with the cheesy goodness of the mozzarella stick snacks.
What are the best flavors to go with mozzarella sticks?
Mozzarella sticks are ideally one of the most popular appetizers out there, and for good reason – they’re salty, crunchy, and cheesy!
When it comes to pairing flavors with mozzarella sticks, the possibilities are endless.
From traditional favorites such as marinara sauce or garlic aioli to more creative options like honey mustard or chipotle mayo, there’s something for everyone.
For those looking for something truly unique, try combining blue cheese and bacon bits with a creamy ranch dip.
It provides an explosion of flavor that will have your guests coming back for more.
If you’re looking for something sweet to go along your mozzarella sticks, then why not try dipping them in some honey or maple syrup?
The combination of cheese and sweetness makes this an unbeatable snack.
How do you jazz up mozzarella sticks?
There are a few ways to jazz up mozzarella sticks. Try breading them in crushed tortilla chips or French-fried onions for an extra crunchy texture.
For an added layer of flavor, try dipping them in ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy mixture before cooking.
You can also try rolling the sticks in herbs and spices like oregano, paprika, or garlic powder for some extra zest.
Finally, you can add a cheesy kick by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese over your finished product!
Discover More: 20 Delicious Pairings to Serve with Tomato Mozzarella Salad
How do you display mozzarella sticks on a platter?
Mozzarella sticks can be displayed on a platter in a variety of ways for an attractive presentation.
The first step is to preheat the oven as directed in the package instructions and prepare the baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greased foil.
Place the mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave plenty of space between each one. Bake until golden brown according to the instructions on the package label.
Once cooked, arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a platter, alternating between plain and battered varieties for visual appeal.
To finish your presentation, sprinkle some chopped parsley around for added color and garnish with wedges of lemon or lime for an additional kick of flavor.
Wrap Up on what to serve with mozzarella sticks
Mozzarella sticks are an ideal classic snack that everyone loves. But, if you want to make them even better, you need to serve them with some delicious side dishes.
From classic marinara sauce to fresh and healthy salads, there are plenty of options to choose from. You could try any of our suggested dishes and take your mozzarella sticks to the next level.
So, the next time you’re planning to serve mozzarella sticks, remember that there are many options to elevate this cheesy delight. Enjoy!
FAQs
How many mozzarella sticks per person?
On average, one person can eat about 3-4 mozzarella sticks per sitting.
This can alter based on the size of the mozzarella sticks, as some might be larger in diameter than others.
Furthermore, the amount of cheese may also determine how many mozzarella sticks can be eaten in one sitting – for example, if each stick contains more cheese, then less may be able to fit into a single person’s stomach!
Additionally, depending on the individual’s appetite and preference level for mozzarella sticks, it is possible to consume more or fewer than the aforementioned range.
What meat goes with mozzarella?
Mozzarella is an ideal versatile cheese that can be used in many dishes, but some of the most popular pairings with mozzarella are cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and pepperoni.
Mozzarella also pairs well with chicken, beef, pork, and even grilled vegetables such as eggplant or zucchini.
The salty flavor of cured meats and the creamy texture of mozzarella work well together to create an unforgettable taste.
For a savory appetizer, try wrapping prosciutto around slices of fresh mozzarella and grilling them until golden brown.
To add some sweetness to your dish, you can drizzle balsamic vinegar or honey over top for extra flavor.
Another delicious way to enjoy mozzarella is layered with thinly sliced tomatoes, basil leaves, and parmesan cheese for a classic Italian Caprese salad.
Can you eat pizza sauce with mozzarella sticks?
Yes, you can eat pizza sauce with mozzarella sticks.
Mozzarella sticks are typically deep-fried cheese sticks that are coated with a crunchy layer of breadcrumbs or a similar type of coating.
They can be served on their own as an appetizer or snack, but they are often served with a side of pizza sauce for dipping.
The combination of melty, savory cheese sticks and tangy, flavorful pizza sauce makes for an irresistible combination – perfect for game day snacking or weekend movie nights!
