Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Restaurant-quality mozzarella sticks with perfectly melted, stretchy cheese inside and an irresistibly golden, crunchy breadcrumb coating. These air fryer mozzarella sticks are significantly healthier than deep-fried versions while delivering that satisfying cheese pull everyone craves. Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or indulgent treat with marinara sauce.
Equipment
- Shallow Bowls
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 8 sticks mozzarella string cheese, unwrapped
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- cooking spray
- ½ cup marinara sauce for serving
Instructions
- Cut each mozzarella stick in half to create 16 shorter pieces. This helps prevent cheese from leaking out during cooking and ensures more even heating.
- Set up three shallow bowls: flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in the third bowl.
- Working with one piece at a time, dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in beaten egg, and finally roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- For extra coating security, repeat the egg and breadcrumb process once more for each stick. This double coating prevents cheese leakage during air frying.
- Place coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for 15-20 minutes. This crucial step helps the coating set and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly.
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange frozen mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece. Lightly spray tops with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcook or the cheese will leak out. Let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow cheese to set slightly.
- Serve immediately while still warm and stretchy, with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the satisfying cheese pull!
Notes
🔹 Freezing step is crucial - don't skip it or the cheese will leak during cooking.
🔹 Double coating ensures the best protection against cheese leakage.
🔹 Use string cheese rather than block mozzarella for best results.
🔹 These can be prepared and frozen up to 1 month in advance - cook from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes.
🔹 Try serving with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or spicy arrabbiata sauce for variety.
Nutrition
Calories: 195kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 12gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 380mgPotassium: 95mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg
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