Description
These Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are perfectly golden, crispy on the outside, and irresistibly gooey inside – a healthier, homemade twist on a beloved classic.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, halved
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Olive oil spray
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- Cut each mozzarella stick in half and freeze for at least 30 minutes until firm.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with mixed breadcrumbs, panko, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.
- Roll each frozen stick in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more for extra crispiness.
- Place coated sticks on a baking sheet and freeze again for 30 minutes.
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Spray basket lightly with olive oil.
- Arrange sticks in a single layer, spray tops with oil, and air fry 6–8 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Cool slightly, then serve immediately with warm marinara sauce.
Notes
Freeze twice to prevent cheese leakage and ensure a perfect crispy texture. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 sticks
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: air fryer mozzarella sticks, crispy cheese sticks, homemade mozzarella sticks, appetizer