Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are a deliciously cheesy snack that is crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. They make for a perfect appetizer or game day treat and are much healthier than traditional deep-fried versions, thanks to the air fryer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these cheesy delights in no time!

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

Air Fryer: For cooking the mozzarella sticks to perfection.
Three Shallow Bowls: For the breading station (flour, eggs, breadcrumbs).
Baking Sheet: To freeze the mozzarella sticks before air frying.
Tongs: For easy handling of the sticks.

Ingredient Overview

Mozzarella Cheese Sticks: The main ingredient; string cheese works perfectly.
All-Purpose Flour: For dredging the cheese sticks.
Eggs: Beaten, to help the breadcrumbs stick.
Breadcrumbs: Use panko for an extra crispy texture; Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add flavor.
Garlic Powder and Italian Seasoning: For added flavor in the breadcrumbs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks
Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and cut them in half if you prefer shorter sticks. Lay them out on a baking sheet.
Bread the Cheese Sticks
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Add all-purpose flour and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Beat a few eggs.
- Bowl 3: Combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.
  Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure they are well-coated.
Freeze the Breaded Sticks
Place the breaded mozzarella sticks back on the baking sheet and freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This helps keep the cheese from oozing out while cooking.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks
Once the air fryer is preheated, arrange the frozen mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding. Spray lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness. Air fry for about 6–8 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve
Carefully remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer and serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping.

Recipe Tips

Cheese Options: While mozzarella is traditional, you can try using other types of cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack, for different flavors.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs for a little heat.
Storage: If you have leftover sticks, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even garlic aioli for dipping. Serve alongside a fresh salad or veggie platter for a complete snack spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bread the mozzarella sticks and freeze them. Just air fry them directly from the freezer when you’re ready to serve.

Q: What if I don’t have an air fryer?
A: You can bake them in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: Can I use pre-breaded mozzarella sticks?
A: Yes, but keep in mind that they may not be as crispy as homemade ones made with fresh cheese and breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions

Arrange the mozzarella sticks on a platter with a bowl of marinara sauce in the center for a visually appealing presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an added touch of color and flavor.

Equipment

Air fryer
Three shallow bowls
Baking sheet
Tongs

Ingredients

Mozzarella Sticks
10 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Cooking spray (for air frying)

Instructions

Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks
Cut cheese sticks if desired and lay them on a baking sheet.
Bread the Cheese Sticks
Dredge in flour, dip in eggs, and coat in breadcrumbs.
Freeze the Breaded Sticks
Freeze for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Heat to 390°F (200°C).
Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks
Cook in the air fryer for 6–8 minutes until golden.
Serve
Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

Summary

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are a fun and easy snack that delivers all the cheesy goodness you crave without the extra oil and calories of traditional frying. Enjoy them fresh out of the air fryer for the best texture!

Notes

Customize your dipping sauces and enjoy this cheesy treat at any gathering or movie night!