Description
These Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks deliver all the cheesy, crunchy goodness of the classic appetizer without the excess oil of deep frying. With a golden, crispy breadcrumb coating and a warm, gooey center, these homemade mozzarella sticks are perfect for parties, game nights, or satisfying snack cravings. Quick to prepare and easy to make ahead, they’re a must-try air fryer recipe!
Ingredients
Scale
For the mozzarella sticks:
- 10 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
For serving:
- Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Breading Station
- In one bowl, place the flour.
- In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Coat the Cheese Sticks
- Roll each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip in the egg mixture, ensuring full coverage.
- Coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a second coating.
Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks
- Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes, or until solid.
Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the frozen mozzarella sticks with cooking spray.
- Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring space between each stick.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve Immediately
- Remove from the air fryer and serve hot with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Freezing before cooking is essential to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.
- Double breading ensures a thicker, crispier crust.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 4-5 minutes.
- Uncooked, breaded mozzarella sticks can be frozen for up to 3 months and cooked straight from frozen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American