Description
Crispy, gooey, and irresistibly delicious, these Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect appetizer or snack. With a golden, crunchy exterior and melty cheese center, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This healthier alternative to deep-fried versions is quick, easy, and just as satisfying.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 8 whole milk mozzarella sticks
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60g)
- 1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs (90g)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese: Cut the mozzarella sticks in half crosswise to make 16 pieces.
- Set up dredging stations: Place the flour in a shallow dish. Beat the eggs in a second shallow dish. Combine the panko, Italian seasonings, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a third shallow dish.
- Coat the cheese sticks: Dip each cheese stick in flour, then the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for a second layer.
- Freeze: Place the coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 month in an airtight container.
- Preheat air fryer: Set the air fryer to 390°F and preheat for 5 minutes.
- Cook: Spray the air fryer basket and frozen sticks with oil. Air fry in batches until golden, 6 to 8 minutes.
- Serve: Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Double-dredge the cheese sticks to create a proper barrier and prevent cheese from oozing out.
- Keep a close eye on the mozzarella sticks while air frying to prevent bursting.
- Don’t skip the freezing step, as it’s essential for proper cooking.
- Air fry in batches, leaving space between each stick for optimal crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 pieces
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
