Mozzarella sticks are the ultimate snack, right? These cheesy delights have that perfect gooeyness that can turn a boring Tuesday into a mini party.
We can never resist the temptation of that crispy coating giving way to stretchy cheese goodness.
We’ve devoured a few too many at movie nights or sneaked a handful during lunch breaks, am I right? Now, the big question: what the heck do we serve with these divine sticks?
We need sides that complement that rich, melty cheese without stealing the show. From classic marinara to spicy dips, we’re here to cover what really takes our beloved mozzarella sticks from “meh” to “wow!”
Buckle up for a tasty rundown of sidekick options!
Top 13 Side Dishes for Mozzarella Sticks
Here, we will explore the best dishes that pair perfectly with mozzarella sticks. Warning: may cause extreme drooling and cravings for melted cheese.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor | Difficulty | Time |
| Marinara Sauce | Tomatoes, garlic, herbs, olive oil | Savory, tangy | Easy | 20 mins |
| Garlic Parmesan Knots | Bread dough, garlic, Parmesan, butter | Buttery, garlicky | Medium | 30 mins |
| Buffalo Chicken Wings | Chicken wings, hot sauce, butter | Spicy, tangy | Medium | 45 mins |
| Spinach Artichoke Dip | Spinach, artichokes, cream cheese | Creamy, savory | Medium | 25 mins |
| Loaded Nachos | Tortilla chips, cheese, toppings | Cheesy, savory | Medium | 30 mins |
| Italian Meatballs | Ground beef, breadcrumbs, herbs | Savory, herby | Medium | 40 mins |
| Bruschetta with Tomato Basil | Bread, tomatoes, basil, garlic | Fresh, tangy | Easy | 15 mins |
| Crispy Fried Pickles | Pickles, flour, breadcrumbs | Tangy, crispy | Medium | 20 mins |
| Roasted Red Pepper Hummus | Red peppers, chickpeas, tahini | Smoky, creamy | Medium | 20 mins |
| Stuffed Jalapeños | Jalapeños, cheese, spices | Spicy, cheesy | Medium | 25 mins |
| Caesar Salad | Romaine lettuce, Parmesan, croutons | Tangy, savory | Medium | 15 mins |
| Mini Sliders | Ground beef, buns, cheese | Savory, juicy | Medium | 30 mins |
| Sweet Potato Fries | Sweet potatoes, olive oil, seasoning | Sweet, savory | Medium | 30 mins |
1 – Marinara Sauce
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We all know marinara sauce brings its A-game to mozzarella sticks. It’s tangy, rich, and the ultimate dipping buddy.
A little garlic and herbs take it to the next level. Fresh basil on top adds a nice touch.
Use it warm for maximum cheesiness. Leftovers? Use it on pasta later.
Store-bought is fine, homemade is even better. Experiment with spices until it sings.
2 – Garlic Parmesan Knots
Garlic parmesan knots are like tiny clouds of bread with a cheesy twist. They bring buttery goodness to the table.
The garlic and cheese combo is a trusty side for mozzarella sticks. These knots add a fun crunch.
Dipping them in marinara is pure bliss. We sometimes go heavy on the garlic for extra flavour punch.
Warm them up before serving; it makes a huge difference. We keep some handy for game nights and movie marathons.
3 – Buffalo Chicken Wings
Buffalo wings are a rite of passage for snack lovers. They bring heat and flavour with a kick.
We’re all about that crispy skin and juicy meat combo. Dunking them in ranch or blue cheese takes it up a notch.
Deep-frying or baking works—just get that sauce on point. These wings always disappear fast at our gatherings.
Adjust the spice to avoid breaking a sweat. Pairing them with celery sticks balances the heat, so grab some.
4 – Spinach Artichoke Dip
Spinach artichoke dip is a crowd-pleaser. Warm, creamy, and packed with flavor.
We often serve it warm with chips or bread. A little cheese goes a long way.
Add some garlic for an extra kick. Fresh spinach or frozen works fine.
Keep it simple, but don’t skimp on seasoning. Mix in some cream cheese for that velvety texture.
Serve it hot, or risk the dreaded cold dip syndrome.
It’s also killer with veggies for those looking for a lighter choice.
5 – Loaded Nachos
Loaded nachos are basically the ultimate shareable snack. They come piled high with cheese, toppings, and goodness.
We layer chips with everything from cheese to jalapeños and sour cream.
They’re great for parties or just chilling at home. You can customize them completely.
Try swapping cheddar for pepper jack for that little extra kick. We like adding beans or grilled chicken for protein too.
Fresh toppings like cilantro or diced tomatoes keep things fresh. Don’t forget the salsa—it’s the cherry on top.
6 – Italian Meatballs
Who doesn’t want a meatball? Seriously, these guys steal the show at any gathering.
They’re juicy, packed with flavour, and can spice up any plate. We love ours simmered in sauce on spaghetti or stuffed in a sub.
Make a batch for weekday meals. Freeze them for later. Pro tip: mix in breadcrumbs and parmesan for texture and taste.
Use beef, pork, or turkey—find what works best for us. Sneak in herbs for extra flair.
7 – Bruschetta with Tomato Basil
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Bruschetta is that simple snack we all wish we could whip up in a flash. It’s like an Italian plate of sunshine.
To create it, we pile fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil on toasted bread.
Get the bread nice and crispy for a fun crunch. We recommend a drizzle of olive oil for that extra zing.
Skip the charred bread—it’s a bummer. Want a twist? Try adding mozzarella or balsamic glaze.
This side can make any meal feel fancy without the fuss.
8 – Crispy Fried Pickles
So, are fried pickles really the MVP of snacks? They’re crunchy, tangy, and totally fun. We enjoy them as a side or on their own.
Dipping them in ranch is a must. The combo can turn any meal into a snack extravaganza.
Opt for spears or chips; both are solid choices.
The batter should be light and crispy for the best experience. Freshly fried is key; reheating ruins the magic.
Perfect for sharing, or not—we won’t judge.
9 – Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Roasted red pepper hummus is basically smoothness in a bowl. It mixes sweet, smoky flavor with a creamy vibe. We snag this dip for gatherings or lazy days on the couch.
This dish works great with veggies or pita chips. It also struts its stuff on sandwiches. We like to amp up the garlic and squeeze in lemon juice for brightness.
Store-bought saves time, but homemade is a fun weekend project. Jazz up the presentation with some chopped parsley.
10 – Stuffed Jalapeños
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Stuffed jalapeños are like tiny flavor bombs. They kick things up a notch.
Cream cheese is usually the star of the stuffing. We mix it with spices and maybe some crumbled bacon.
Fresh jalapeños bring heat, but we can adjust the spice level.
Bake them until crispy for crunch. A drizzle of hot sauce adds fire if we’re feeling bold.
Perfect for sharing or keeping all to ourselves. They disappear fast during game nights.
11 – Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is like the cool kid on the block. Crispy romaine gets a creamy dressing that’s simply iconic.
We sneak in croutons for some crunch and a sprinkle of parmesan on top. Anchovies add that salty kick if we’re feeling bold.
Mix it all just before serving to keep things fresh. Skip soggy lettuce; nobody wants that.
It’s an easy go-to, and it pairs well with a bunch of dishes. We make it often and play around with toppings too.
12 – Mini Sliders
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Mini sliders are basically tiny burgers that pack big flavour. They’re super easy to customize. We can use beef, turkey, or even veggies.
Perfect for parties or a lazy Sunday. Buns should be soft and toppings fresh. Don’t skimp on the cheese; it’s crucial.
Grilling is great, but baking also works. Experiment with sauces for a fun twist. These babies disappear quickly, so make extras!
Keep the toppings simple or go wild; it’s up to us.
13 – Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a must-try. They’re crispy and slightly sweet, making them a fun side. We toss ours in a little olive oil and salt before baking for that crispy finish.
Dipping them in spicy mayo or garlic aioli takes it up a notch. We love to mix in some spice for a kick. These fries are a go-to at any gathering, and they vanish fast from the plate.
Easy to make ahead or whip up last minute. They balance well with any main dish.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.