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Growing up in a kitchen full of warmth, laughter, and sizzling aromas, mozzarella sticks were always a beloved treat. My mom used to make them as a reward for good grades or on movie nights, and they instantly became my comfort food. Now, with the magic of air fryers, I’ve recreated that same cheesy joy—just healthier, quicker, and way less messy! This Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe is my go-to for crunchy, melty goodness that doesn’t require deep frying. Whether it’s for your kids, guests, or a solo snack night, this recipe checks every box.
Why Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Are a Game-Changer
Healthier than Deep-Fried Snacks
Say goodbye to greasy fingers and oily mess. Air fryers use circulating hot air to crisp up the outer layer, eliminating the need for cups of oil. These mozzarella sticks come out golden and satisfying with a fraction of the fat.
Convenient & Fast for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting game night, prepping school snacks, or just craving something cheesy and crunchy, these air fryer mozzarella sticks are done in under 10 minutes—after freezing. No need to preheat a bulky oven or deal with a fryer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, budget-friendly, and you probably already have them:
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- Cooking spray or oil mister
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
1. Prepare the Cheese Sticks
Unwrap your mozzarella string cheese and cut each stick in half, making 24 bite-sized sticks. Place them on a tray or plate and keep them cold while setting up your dredging station.
2. Set Up Your Breading Stations
You’ll need three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: All-purpose flour.
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
- Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, salt, and paprika.
3. Bread the Cheese Sticks
Take one cheese stick at a time and:
- Roll it in flour to coat.
- Dip into the beaten egg.
- Coat with breadcrumb mixture.
- Repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for a thicker coating.
Place coated sticks on a parchment-lined tray.
4. Freeze the Breaded Sticks
Freeze the prepared mozzarella sticks for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial to prevent the cheese from leaking out while air frying.
5. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.
6. Air Fry in Batches
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Arrange the frozen sticks in a single layer.
Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through. The coating should be golden and crisp.
7. Serve Immediately
Remove from the air fryer and serve hot with marinara sauce or your favorite dip. Best enjoyed fresh!
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Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 18 minutes (includes freezing)
- Yield: 24 mozzarella sticks 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crunchy outside, gooey inside Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks. Easy to prep and perfect for cheesy party snacks in under 10 minutes.
Ingredients
12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese), cut in half
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
1. Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with seasonings in a third.
2. Dip each cheese stick into the flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture. Repeat egg and breadcrumb step for extra crunch.
3. Lay coated sticks on a tray and freeze for at least 1 hour.
4. Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
5. Place frozen mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
7. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce.
Notes
Freezing is crucial to prevent cheese from melting out.
Try adding grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mix for added flavor.
Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in air fryer for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 sticks
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks, Cheesy Appetizer, Party Snack, Air Fryer Snacks
FAQs About Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Why is freezing necessary?
It ensures the cheese doesn’t melt too quickly and ooze out during cooking.
Can I prep these in advance?
Yes! Bread and freeze, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Can I use gluten-free ingredients?
Yes, just use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
What dips work well besides marinara?
Try garlic aioli, ranch, pesto, or spicy mayo.