Crispy Low Carb Mozzarella Cheese Sticks with Marinara Dip

Few things are more satisfying than biting into a crispy mozzarella stick and seeing that glorious cheese pull. But when you’re following a low carb or keto lifestyle, traditional breaded cheese sticks are usually off-limits—until now.

These Low Carb Mozzarella Cheese Sticks give you all the crunch and melty indulgence you crave, without the carbs. Made with almond flour or pork rinds and served with a zesty marinara dip, they’re the perfect guilt-free snack, appetizer, or party bite.

Whether you’re hosting game night, looking for a savory side, or just craving something cheesy and satisfying, this easy keto recipe hits the spot.

Why Make These Low Carb Mozzarella Cheese Sticks?

Classic Flavor Without the Carbs

These mozzarella sticks deliver the same satisfying experience as traditional ones—crispy coating, soft melted cheese inside—but with only a fraction of the carbs. Instead of traditional breadcrumbs, we use almond flour or crushed pork rinds to recreate that signature crunch.

Keto-Friendly and Gluten-Free

By skipping wheat-based coatings, these cheese sticks fit perfectly into keto, paleo, and gluten-free diets. They’re high in protein and fat, low in carbs, and incredibly filling.

Fast and Easy to Prepare

You can make a full batch with just a few pantry ingredients, most of which you probably already have. With freezing and frying, the whole process can be done in under an hour, including prep.

Kid-Approved and Party-Perfect

These cheesy bites are a favorite for kids and adults alike. Serve them with marinara, ranch, or even a homemade spicy dipping sauce at your next gathering and watch them disappear.

Versatile and Customizable

You can tweak the seasoning, choose your preferred cheese, or use an air fryer for a healthier twist. This recipe is just a base—you can make it your own.

Want more adaptable keto recipes that everyone at the table will enjoy? Download your FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes and start cooking smarter today.

Ingredients List

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for both the mozzarella sticks and a simple homemade dipping sauce:

For the Mozzarella Sticks:

• 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese), preferably full-fat and low moisture

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• ¾ cup almond flour
  Alternative: ¾ cup crushed pork rinds for extra crunch

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Oil for frying, such as avocado oil or light olive oil

For the Sugar-Free Marinara Dipping Sauce (Optional):

• ½ cup tomato sauce (no sugar added)

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Read More: Crave-Worthy Keto Beef Taco Salad Bowl

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Freeze the Cheese

Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and cut them in half if you prefer shorter portions. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper and freeze for 30 to 60 minutes. Freezing is essential—it ensures the cheese doesn’t melt too quickly when it hits the hot oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up three shallow bowls:

• Bowl 1: Add almond flour (or crushed pork rinds), garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

• Bowl 2: Beat the eggs until uniform.

• Bowl 3: Reserve for holding the fully breaded sticks.

Step 3: Coat the Mozzarella Sticks

Once the cheese sticks are frozen, dip each one into the beaten eggs, then coat in the dry mixture. For a thicker, crispier crust, repeat the process by dipping in egg and breading a second time. Place finished sticks on a tray and return to the freezer for 10–15 minutes.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Add oil to a deep skillet or small saucepan—enough for shallow frying (about 1.5 to 2 inches deep). Heat over medium to medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C). Test by dropping in a bit of the coating mixture—it should sizzle immediately.

Step 5: Fry the Cheese Sticks

Fry in batches of 3–4 sticks to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, turning carefully with tongs, until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 6: Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional)

While the sticks rest, heat a small saucepan over low heat. Add tomato sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and fragrant.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Arrange the mozzarella sticks on a platter with the warm marinara sauce for dipping. Serve immediately while the cheese is still gooey inside.

This process is fast and foolproof with a little prep. If you enjoy simple yet satisfying low-carb recipes, the FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes is packed with meals you’ll crave.

Tips and Substitutions

• Double-Freezing: Don’t skip the second freezing step—it helps the coating stay intact and keeps the cheese from melting too quickly.

• Dairy-Free Option: Try plant-based cheese sticks if you’re avoiding dairy. Test a few brands to find one that melts well.

• No Frying? Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–12 minutes, flipping once halfway. Or use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes.

• Nut-Free Coating: Replace almond flour with crushed pork rinds or sunflower seed flour.

• Extra Flavor: Add grated parmesan, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika to the breading mix.

Read More: Keto Savory Spiced Meatloaf

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Mozzarella Sticks: Mix cayenne pepper or chipotle powder into your breading for heat.

• Parmesan Crusted: Add finely grated parmesan cheese to the coating for a sharp, salty crunch.

• Zucchini Mozzarella Combo: Bread thin slices of zucchini along with mozzarella sticks for variety on the plate.

• Mini Cheese Balls: Cut mozzarella into cubes and bread them for bite-sized party snacks.

• Low-Carb Pizza Bites: Add a slice of pepperoni under the coating for a pizza-flavored twist.

Want even more low-carb ideas like this? You’ll find dozens of creative flavor variations in the FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes.

Nutritional Information

(Per 3 Cheese Sticks)

Read More: Keto Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Flash-freeze uncooked, breaded sticks on a baking tray. Once solid, transfer to a zip-top bag. Cook directly from frozen when ready.

Reheating:

• Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes to crisp up.

• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.

Serving Ideas:

• Serve as a party appetizer with various dips: ranch, sugar-free ketchup, or pesto.

• Add them to a low-carb snack board with olives, cured meats, and sliced veggies.

• Enjoy as a side dish with keto meatballs or a fresh tomato salad.

For more inspiring ways to serve keto meals, explore the FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes—it’s full of versatile, satisfying ideas.

Common Questions

Can I use shredded mozzarella?

No. Shredded cheese doesn’t hold together and will melt too quickly. Stick to whole mozzarella sticks or string cheese for the best results.

Why is my cheese oozing out?

This usually happens when the sticks weren’t frozen long enough or the oil wasn’t hot enough. Always freeze before frying and monitor oil temperature closely.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. Bread and freeze them in advance. When you’re ready to cook, just fry them straight from the freezer.

Are these suitable for keto?

Yes. Each serving has only about 2 grams of net carbs, making it an ideal snack or appetizer for ketogenic diets.

What oils are best for frying?

Use oils with high smoke points like avocado oil, beef tallow, or refined coconut oil. Avoid extra virgin olive oil, which can burn at high temperatures.

Conclusion

Low Carb Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are the ultimate keto-friendly comfort food. Crispy, cheesy, and endlessly satisfying, they prove that you don’t need to give up indulgent snacks when you’re eating low-carb. Whether you’re preparing for a party, feeding your family, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is a keeper.

With a simple ingredient list, straightforward steps, and easy customization, you can have a batch ready any day of the week. And once you master this recipe, you’ll find countless ways to adapt and expand on it.