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Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks (Homemade Recipe): Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistible

  • Author: Annabel
  • Total Time: 1 hour 17 minutes
  • Yield: 16 mozzarella sticks

Description

Crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious, these homemade air fryer mozzarella sticks are a healthier take on a classic favorite. With a golden Panko breadcrumb coating and gooey melted cheese inside, they’re perfect for snacks, appetizers, or game-day treats.

Ingredients

  • 8 mozzarella cheese sticks or string cheese sticks
  • 1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese:
    • Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and cut each stick in half, creating 16 smaller sticks.
    • Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Set Up Breading Station:
    • In one shallow bowl, place the flour.
    • In a second bowl, whisk the eggs.
    • In a third bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
  3. Bread the Mozzarella Sticks:
    • Coat each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess.
    • Dip it in the beaten egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
    • Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for an extra crispy coating.
    • Place breaded sticks back on the baking sheet and freeze for an additional 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  5. Cook the Mozzarella Sticks:
    • Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray.
    • 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 5–7 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Serve:
    • Let the mozzarella sticks cool slightly before serving.
    • Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Freezing Tip: Don’t skip the freezing steps to ensure the cheese doesn’t melt too quickly.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 2–3 minutes.
  • Customization: Feel free to adjust the spices in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Snack, Appetizer
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: American

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Find it online: https://yummyolk.com/air-fryer-mozzarella-sticks-homemade-recipe-crispy-cheesy-and-irresistible/