Cheese Sticks: The Perfect Sauce Pairings For Every Taste

There are many sauces that go well with cheese sticks, and the best one for you will depend on your personal preference. Some popular options include marinara sauce, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, sweet chili sauce, garlic butter, aioli/mayonnaise, and pesto. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even try Melba sauce, a condiment made from puréed raspberries that is a favourite pairing for cheese sticks in New York's Capital Region.

Melba sauce

While marinara sauce is a classic pairing with cheese sticks, there are several other sauces that can be used to elevate the snack. One such sauce is Melba sauce, a condiment made from puréed raspberries. Melba sauce is said to be the preferred pairing with cheese sticks in New York's Capital Region.

The combination of sweet, salty, and gooey flavours creates an amazing flavour burst. The raspberry sauce clings to the salty, gooey cheese and the hot, oily breading, balancing the savoury with the sweet. The sauce can be made by blending fresh raspberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice to the desired thickness. It can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks or frozen for a few months.

Marinara sauce

A good marinara dipping sauce should have a smooth texture and bold, yet not overpowering, flavours. While traditional marinara sauce is often used for pasta, a few simple tweaks can make it ideal for dipping cheese sticks.

Here's a step-by-step guide to making the perfect marinara sauce for cheese sticks:

• For a smooth sauce, infuse olive oil with garlic flavour by heating peeled and smashed garlic cloves in olive oil until browned, then remove and discard the garlic. This technique ensures the sauce is not overwhelmed by large pieces of garlic.
• Blooming spices in olive oil or any fat is the next step. This process releases fat-soluble flavour compounds, allowing for an even distribution of flavour throughout the sauce. Add spices like basil and oregano to the olive oil and cook for about 30 seconds before introducing the tomato sauce.
• Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the tomato sauce. You can use canned tomato sauce or diced/crushed tomatoes cooked a little longer for a chunkier texture.
• Add salt to taste and simmer the sauce until the flavours have blended, usually about 10 minutes.
• Keep the sauce warm over low heat until serving time, or cool it completely and store it covered in the refrigerator for later use.

This marinara dipping sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. It can also be frozen in airtight containers for up to three months.

So, the next time you're looking for a delicious sauce to pair with your cheese sticks, consider whipping up a batch of marinara sauce. It's fast and easy, and sure to elevate your snacking experience.

BBQ sauce

For those who enjoy a sweet and savoury combination, BBQ sauce is an excellent choice. The tanginess of the sauce balances out the richness of the cheese, creating a lip-smacking snack. The sauce is also versatile, as it can be drizzled or dunked, depending on its consistency.

When it comes to making your own BBQ sauce, a few simple ingredients are all you need. Ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, and garlic powder create a delicious blend. You can also add a kick of spice with ingredients like chipotle pepper, sriracha, or cayenne pepper.

If you're looking for a unique and indulgent snack experience, pairing BBQ sauce with cheese sticks is a great option. The combination of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavours will leave you craving more. So, go ahead and give it a try!

Ranch dressing

If you're looking to elevate your cheese stick experience, you can try making your own homemade ranch dressing. This allows you to adjust the ingredients to your liking and control the level of herbiness, creaminess, and seasoning. You can also experiment with different types of herbs to create unique flavour profiles.

For an extra special treat, consider serving your cheese sticks with a side of warm marinara sauce, in addition to the ranch dressing. This classic pairing is a timeless choice that perfectly complements the cheesy goodness. The rich tomato base of the marinara, enhanced with garlic and herbs, provides a delightful contrast to the cool and creamy ranch.

Honey mustard

If you're looking for a sauce that is sweet, tangy, and creamy, honey mustard is a great choice to elevate your cheese sticks.

Frequently asked questions