- Category: Appetizers & Snacks
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Introduction:
Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside—Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate snack or appetizer you can whip up at home with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing snacks for a party, movie night, or just a cheesy craving, this easy homemade mozzarella sticks recipe is your go-to guide. The best part? It’s healthier than deep-fried versions and equally delicious thanks to the magic of the air fryer!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No deep frying – less oil, less messPerfectly crispy and cheesyKid-friendly and freezer-friendlyQuick prep and cook timeIdeal appetizer or snack for game day, parties, or weekend cravings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepperOlive oil spray (or cooking spray)Marinara sauce or ranch dressing (for dipping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the Cheese Sticks Start by unwrapping all the mozzarella sticks and cutting each stick in half, creating 24 shorter sticks. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and pop them in the freezer for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial to keep them from melting too quickly in the air fryer.
- Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station Prepare three shallow bowls:Bowl 1 (Flour): Add all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.Bowl 2 (Egg Wash): Beat 2 eggs until smooth.Bowl 3 (Breadcrumb Mix): Combine Italian breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning.
- Step 3: Coat the Mozzarella Sticks Take the frozen cheese sticks out of the freezer. Working one stick at a time:Roll it in the flour mixture – coat well and shake off excess.Dip into the beaten egg mixture – make sure it’s fully covered.Roll in the breadcrumb mix – press firmly to adhere the coating.Optional: For an extra crispy coating, repeat steps 2 and 3 again (double coating).Place the coated sticks back on the parchment-lined tray.
- Step 4: Freeze Again Once all sticks are breaded, freeze them for another 30 minutes to 1 hour. This prevents the cheese from oozing out during air frying.
- Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes.
- Step 6: Air Fry the Mozzarella SticksLightly spray the basket of your air fryer with cooking spray. Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer (don’t overcrowd). Lightly spray the tops of the sticks as well.Air fry for 6–8 minutes, turning halfway through.Cook until golden brown and crispy on the outside.Note: Watch closely during the last minute so the cheese doesn’t ooze out.
- Step 7: Serve Hot with Dips remove from air fryer and serve hot with warm marinara sauce, ranch dip, or your favorite sauce.
Tips for Best Results:
Freezing is essential: Don’t skip freezing steps—it prevents cheese blowouts.Double coating = crispier sticks.Use panko for extra crunch.Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips:
To make ahead: Bread the sticks and freeze them uncooked. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.To reheat: Air fry leftovers at 350°F for 3–4 minutes until warm and crispy.Do not microwave—they’ll turn soggy.
Serving Suggestions:
Appetizer for parties, potlucks, or Super Bowl snacksAfter-school snack for kidsWeekend movie nightPair with tomato basil soup for a fun twist on grilled cheese and soup!
Nutrition (Per Serving – approx.):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 14g
(Values may vary depending on ingredients used.)