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air fryer mozzarella stick recipe

air fryer mozzarella stick recipe


  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 23 minutes
  • Yield: 12 mozzarella sticks
  • Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free substitutions)

Description

Enjoy perfectly crispy, golden air fryer mozzarella sticks with a gooey cheese center without the mess and extra oil of deep frying. This quick and easy recipe uses simple ingredients and a double coating technique for a crunchy exterior and melty inside, ideal for snacks, appetizers, or game day treats.


Ingredients

Mozzarella Sticks

  • Block mozzarella cheese, cut into 3-inch sticks

Coating Ingredients

  • All-purpose flour (with a pinch of salt and pepper)
  • Eggs, beaten
  • Panko breadcrumbs
  • Italian seasoning
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper

For Air Frying

  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks: Cut the block mozzarella into 3-inch sticks if not pre-cut. Place the sticks in the freezer for 30 minutes to prevent cheese from oozing out during cooking.
  2. Set Up the Coating Stations: In three shallow bowls, place the flour mixed with salt and pepper, the beaten eggs, and the seasoned breadcrumb mixture (combine panko, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper).
  3. Bread the Cheese Sticks: Dredge each mozzarella stick in the flour, shaking off the excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. For extra crunch, repeat dipping in egg and breadcrumbs a second time.
  4. Air Fry the Sticks: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the basket, spray lightly with cooking spray, and air fry for 6 to 8 minutes until golden and crisp.
  5. Serve Immediately: Remove the mozzarella sticks carefully, let cool for 1-2 minutes to avoid burning, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

  • Freeze mozzarella sticks before breading to prevent cheese leakage and help coating stick better.
  • Double coating with breadcrumbs gives a sturdier, crunchier crust.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking and airflow.
  • Use light cooking spray to promote a golden color without excess oil.
  • Serve mozzarella sticks fresh out of the air fryer for the best gooey melting cheese experience.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 mozzarella sticks
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, air fryer snack, crispy cheese sticks, easy appetizer, game day snack, cheesy appetizer