Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

These homemade mozzarella sticks are perfect for a quick appetizer, snack, or party dish! The air fryer gives them a perfectly golden, crispy exterior without needing oil, and they’re ready in minutes.

Ingredients

  • 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese), cut in half
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Prep the Cheese Sticks:
    • Cut each mozzarella cheese stick in half, then freeze them for at least 1 hour. Freezing helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly in the air fryer.
  2. Set Up the Breading Station:
    • In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour in one, beaten eggs mixed with water in another, and combine panko breadcrumbs, Italian-style breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano in the third.
  3. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks:
    • Working with a few cheese sticks at a time, dredge each one in flour, shaking off the excess.
    • Dip the floured sticks into the beaten eggs, then roll them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
    • For an extra crispy coating, dip each stick back into the egg mixture and then into the breadcrumbs again, creating a double layer.
    • Place the breaded cheese sticks on a plate or baking sheet and freeze for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour to help keep the cheese from melting too quickly.
  4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  5. Cook the Mozzarella Sticks:
    • Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
    • Place the mozzarella sticks in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between them. You may need to cook in batches.
    • Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 5–7 minutes, or until the sticks are golden and crispy. Be careful not to overcook, as the cheese may start to ooze out.
  6. Serve:
    • Serve the mozzarella sticks immediately with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips

  • Double Coating: Double-coating each mozzarella stick helps create a thicker, crispier shell to keep the cheese contained.
  • Freezing Step: Don’t skip the freezing steps; it’s essential to keep the cheese from melting too fast and spilling out during air frying.
  • Reheating Leftovers: Reheat any leftovers in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispiness.

Variations

  • Spicy Mozzarella Sticks: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make these mozzarella sticks gluten-free.
  • Herbed Mozzarella Sticks: Mix in a tablespoon of fresh chopped basil or parsley with the breadcrumb mixture for an herby flavor.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving of 4 Sticks)

  • Calories: 210
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 12g