Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Air fryer mozzarella sticks are crispy, gooey, and quick to make, offering a healthier twist on the classic fried appetizer. Perfect for snacks, parties, or game day, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 8 mozzarella string cheese sticks, halved
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

How To Make Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

1. Prep the Cheese: Cut mozzarella sticks in half. Place on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 30 minutes to prevent melting during cooking.
2. Set Up Breading Station: Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and combine panko, Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt in a third bowl.
3. Bread the Sticks: Dip each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture, pressing to coat evenly. Repeat egg and breadcrumb steps for a thicker coating.
4. Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Lightly spray the breaded sticks with cooking spray. Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
5. Serve: Serve immediately with marinara sauce or your favorite dip.

You Must Know

• Freezing is Crucial: Freezing the cheese sticks prevents them from melting too quickly in the air fryer.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to crisp up.
• Allergy Info: Contains dairy and gluten; use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check seasonings for allergens if needed.

Topping Variations

• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or serve with spicy marinara.
• Parmesan Dust: Dust with grated Parmesan after cooking for extra cheesiness.
• Herb Blend: Mix fresh chopped basil or parsley into the breadcrumb coating.
• Garlic Butter: Brush with melted garlic butter post-cooking for richness.

Make It A Meal

• Appetizer Platter: Serve with marinara, ranch, and veggie sticks for a party spread.
• Salad Side: Pair with a Caesar salad for a light meal.
• Pizza Night: Add to a pizza night with garlic bread and a side of pasta.

Pro Tips

• Double Coat: Double-dipping in egg and breadcrumbs ensures a sturdy, crispy coating.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches to avoid sticking and ensure even crispiness.
• Spray Lightly: A light mist of oil enhances browning without making the sticks greasy.
• Check Doneness: If cheese starts to ooze, reduce cook time by 1 minute.

Recipe FAQs

Q: Can I use low-fat mozzarella?
A: Yes, but full-fat string cheese holds its shape better and provides a gooier texture.

Q: Why did my mozzarella sticks burst?
A: Ensure sticks are frozen before cooking and avoid overcooking. A double coating also helps.

Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs; check all other ingredients for gluten.

Q: Can I make these in the oven?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined tray for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Print

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Print Recipe

Crispy, golden mozzarella sticks made in an air fryer. A healthier version of the classic appetizer, perfect for snacking or parties.

• Author: Isabel
• Prep Time: 5 min
• Cook Time: 8 min
• Total Time: 13 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
1x2x3x

• 1 large egg.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs.
• 8 whole milk (or low-fat) mozzarella sticks.
• Cooking spray.

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with wax paper. Beat egg in a shallow bowl. Mix Italian seasoning, salt, and breadcrumbs in another bowl.

2. Dip each mozzarella stick in egg, then breadcrumbs. Place on lined sheet. Freeze for 30-60 minutes.

3. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating. Freeze again for 30-60 minutes.

4. Preheat air fryer to 390°F. Spray basket and sticks with cooking spray. Air fry for 6-8 minutes until golden and crispy.

5. Let cool briefly, then serve hot while cheese is still gooey.

Notes

1. For make-ahead, freeze coated sticks completely, then store in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
2. If cooking from frozen, air fry at 360°F for 8-10 minutes.