Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the indulgence of mozzarella sticks with less oil, thanks to air frying.
• Quick and Easy: Simple preparation with minimal ingredients makes this a go-to snack.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun and tasty treat that both kids and adults will love.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 mozzarella string cheese sticks
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray
• Marinara sauce, for serving

Directions

1. Prepare the Cheese Sticks:
   • Unwrap the mozzarella string cheese sticks and cut each in half to create 16 pieces.
2. Set Up Breading Stations:
   • Place the all-purpose flour in a shallow bowl.
   • In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
   • In a third shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Bread the Cheese Sticks:
   • Dredge each mozzarella piece in the flour, shaking off any excess.
   • Dip into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Coat thoroughly with the seasoned panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
   • For an extra crispy exterior, repeat the egg dip and breadcrumb coating for a second layer.
4. Freeze the Breaded Cheese Sticks:
   • Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Freeze for at least 30 minutes to ensure the cheese doesn’t melt too quickly during cooking.
5. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
6. Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
   • Lightly spray the frozen mozzarella sticks with cooking spray to promote browning.
   • Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch.
   • Air fry for 6–8 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Monitor closely to prevent overcooking.
7. Serve Immediately:
   • Carefully remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer.
   • Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 16 mozzarella sticks, serving approximately 4 people.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes freezing time)
• Cooking Time: 6–8 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy version.
• Herb-Infused: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
• Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different types of cheese sticks, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftovers, place the cooled mozzarella sticks in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the mozzarella sticks for 2–3 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again.

FAQs

Can I make these mozzarella sticks ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the mozzarella sticks and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, air fry them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

Why is freezing the mozzarella sticks necessary?

Freezing the breaded mozzarella sticks before air frying helps the coating adhere better and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly, which can cause the sticks to burst open during cooking.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier texture. If using regular breadcrumbs, consider toasting them lightly before use to enhance their crispiness.

What dipping sauces pair well with these mozzarella sticks?

Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also serve them with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a different flavor experience.

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

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These Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, made with seasoned panko breadcrumbs and melted cheese. A healthier alternative to deep-fried mozzarella sticks, this easy air fryer recipe delivers all the crunch with less oil. Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or game-day treat!

• Author: Ava
• Prep Time: 15 minutes (+30 min freezing)
• Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
• Total Time: 55-65 minutes
• Yield: 16 mozzarella sticks (4 servings)
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Air Fryer
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 8 mozzarella string cheese sticks, halved (16 pieces)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray
• Marinara sauce, for serving

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Instructions

• Prepare the Cheese Sticks:
  • Unwrap mozzarella sticks and cut each in half to create 16 pieces.
• Set Up the Breading Stations:
  • Bowl 1: Add flour.
  • Bowl 2: Beat eggs until smooth.
  • Bowl 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Bread the Mozzarella Sticks:
  • Dredge each cheese stick in flour, shaking off excess.
  • Dip into beaten eggs, letting excess drip off.
  • Coat in seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
  • (Optional: Repeat egg & breadcrumb coating for extra crunch.)
• Freeze for 30 Minutes:
  • Place breaded cheese sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent melting while air frying.
• Preheat the Air Fryer:
  • Set air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
• Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
  • Lightly spray frozen mozzarella sticks with cooking spray.
  • Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  • Cook for 6–8 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
• Serve Immediately:
  • Remove from air fryer and serve hot with marinara sauce.

Notes

• Freezing is Essential: Prevents cheese from melting too fast while cooking.
• Crunchier Coating: Use double breading (repeat egg & breadcrumb steps).
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour & breadcrumbs.
• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to breadcrumbs.