Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these air fryer mozzarella sticks are a healthier take on a classic snack, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.
Ingredients
For the Mozzarella Sticks
- 12 pieces mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko) for extra crispiness
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray for air fryer
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the cheese sticks in half for shorter sticks. Lay them on a tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Breading
- Coat each frozen cheese stick in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip each stick into the beaten eggs and allow excess to drip off.
- Roll the sticks in the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick. Repeat for all sticks.
Cooking
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded mozzarella sticks in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
- Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
- Air fry the mozzarella sticks for about 6-8 minutes, checking around the 6-minute mark until golden and crispy.
- Carefully remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer and serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
For maximum crispiness, consider double-breading the sticks and using panko breadcrumbs. Do not overcrowd the air fryer for even cooking. Leftover sticks can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.