Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Introduction:
These crispy, cheesy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are a perfect snack or appetizer. With a crunchy golden coating and gooey melted cheese inside, they’re irresistibly delicious and healthier than deep-fried versions. These mozzarella sticks are quick to prepare, and the air fryer gives them a satisfying crunch without the extra oil.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Healthier option: Made in the air fryer, these mozzarella sticks are lighter but still crispy.
• Kid-friendly: A fun snack or appetizer that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
• Quick and easy: Minimal prep with just a few ingredients, ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 12 mozzarella cheese sticks
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Prep the Cheese Sticks:
   • Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks in half if they’re large. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1-2 hours until fully frozen.
2. Prepare the Breading Station:
   • In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
   • In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, panko, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread the Cheese Sticks:
   • Dip each frozen mozzarella stick into the beaten egg, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the cheese stick to ensure they stick.
   • Repeat the process by dipping the breaded cheese stick back into the egg, then into the breadcrumbs again for a double coating. This helps prevent the cheese from oozing out while cooking.
   • Place the coated mozzarella sticks back onto the baking sheet and freeze for an additional 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
   • Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer, leaving space between them.
   • Lightly spray the tops of the mozzarella sticks with cooking spray.
   • Air fry for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to prevent the cheese from oozing out.
5. Serve:
   • Serve hot with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Freeze Twice: Freezing the mozzarella sticks before breading and again before air frying helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.
• Double Coating: Ensure you double coat the sticks for a thicker crust that keeps the cheese inside.
• Air Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.

Recipe Variations:

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a little heat.
• Cheesy Twist: Mix some shredded mozzarella into the breadcrumb mixture for extra cheesiness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and panko to make this recipe gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for dipping.
• Serve alongside a fresh salad or as part of a game-day appetizer spread.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked breaded mozzarella sticks for up to 3 months. Cook them directly from frozen when ready to air fry.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Special Equipment:

• Air Fryer: A must-have for this recipe. Adjust cook times depending on the brand and model of your air fryer.
• Shallow Bowls: For the egg wash and breadcrumb mixture.

FAQ:

• Can I bake these instead of air frying?
  Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
• Why do I need to freeze the cheese sticks twice?
  Freezing helps the cheese hold its shape while cooking and prevents it from melting too quickly.

Preparation Time:

• 10 minutes for breading the cheese sticks.

Cook Time:

• 8 minutes for air frying.

Total Time:

• 1 hour 20 minutes (including freezing time).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Adriel
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 mozzarella cheese sticks
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

• Prep the Cheese Sticks:
  • Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks in half if they’re large. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1-2 hours until fully frozen.
• Prepare the Breading Station:
  • In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
  • In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, panko, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Bread the Cheese Sticks:
  • Dip each frozen mozzarella stick into the beaten egg, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the cheese stick to ensure they stick.
  • Repeat the process by dipping the breaded cheese stick back into the egg, then into the breadcrumbs again for a double coating. This helps prevent the cheese from oozing out while cooking.
  • Place the coated mozzarella sticks back onto the baking sheet and freeze for an additional 30 minutes to firm up.
• Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  • Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer, leaving space between them.
  • Lightly spray the tops of the mozzarella sticks with cooking spray.
  • Air fry for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to prevent the cheese from oozing out.
• Serve:
  • Serve hot with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 300 kcal
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 15g

Closing Notes:
We hope you enjoy making and devouring these Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks! Share your delicious results with us in the comments or tag us on social media. Stay tuned for more easy and tasty air fryer recipes!