Description
These Air-Fried Mozzarella Sticks are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and made with less oil than the traditional version. They’re an easy appetizer or snack that’s perfect for parties, game days, or whenever you’re craving cheesy comfort food.
Ingredients
Mozzarella Sticks
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, halved
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Others
- Cooking spray
- Marinara sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese sticks: Cut each mozzarella string cheese stick in half to create smaller, bite-sized pieces perfect for air frying.
- First coating: Coat each mozzarella piece in all-purpose flour ensuring an even layer. Then dip each floured piece into the beaten eggs thoroughly to help the breadcrumbs adhere.
- Breading: Roll the egg-coated mozzarella pieces in a mixture of Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to cover them evenly with the flavorful crust.
- Double coating: Repeat the dipping into beaten eggs and rolling in the breadcrumb mixture to create a thicker, more durable crust that will hold up during cooking.
- Freeze: Place the coated mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a tray and freeze for at least 1 hour. This step prevents the cheese from leaking out during the air frying process.
- Preheat air fryer: Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the cheese sticks for cooking.
- Spray and cook: Lightly spray the frozen mozzarella sticks with cooking spray to encourage browning and crispiness. Air fry them in batches for 5–7 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Remove the mozzarella sticks carefully and serve immediately paired with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Freezing is essential to prevent cheese leakage during cooking.
- Cook the sticks in batches without overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Best enjoyed fresh right out of the air fryer for optimal texture and taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
