Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Introduction

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are a quick and delicious snack that’s crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Using an air fryer makes them a healthier alternative to deep frying while still delivering that perfect crunch. Serve them with marinara sauce for an irresistible appetizer.

Ingredients

• 1 package Sargento String Cheese
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs (use Parmesan cheese for a low carb option)
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 cup marinara sauce for dipping (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Season the breadcrumbs with salt and pepper and set aside.
2. Step 2: Create a workstation by placing the flour, seasoned breadcrumbs, and beaten egg in separate bowls.
3. Step 3: Coat each string cheese stick in flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally press it firmly into the breadcrumbs (or Parmesan for low carb).
4. Step 4: Freeze the coated sticks for up to one hour to harden them, which prevents melting during cooking.
5. Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the frozen sticks in a single layer inside the fryer basket.
6. Step 6: Cook for 4 minutes, then carefully flip the sticks over.
7. Step 7: Cook for an additional 4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Cooking times may vary by air fryer, so watch closely to avoid overcooking.
8. Step 8: Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce, if desired. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Freeze the sticks well before cooking to prevent the cheese from oozing out too quickly.
• For extra flavor, mix some garlic powder or dried herbs into the breadcrumbs.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Try dipping these sticks in ranch dressing or spicy sriracha mayo for a twist.

Storage

Store leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of string cheese?

Fresh mozzarella is too soft and releases more moisture; string cheese works best because it holds its shape during cooking.

Do I have to freeze the sticks before air frying?

Yes, freezing helps the coating set and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking out during cooking.

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 84 reviews

Crispy, melty Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks make a perfect appetizer or snack. Coated with seasoned Italian breadcrumbs and quickly cooked in the air fryer for a crunchy exterior and gooey cheese center, these mozzarella sticks are easy to prepare and delicious. Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping to elevate the flavor.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 23 minutes (including freezing time)
• Yield: 6–8 mozzarella sticks (depending on package size) 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese

• 1 package Sargento String Cheese (mozzarella sticks)

Coating

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs (use Parmesan cheese for low carb option)
• salt and pepper to taste

Dipping Sauce (Optional)

• 1 cup marinara sauce

Instructions

1. Season breadcrumbs: In a bowl, mix the Italian breadcrumbs with salt and pepper to add flavor to the coating.
2. Set up breading station: Arrange three separate bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with the seasoned breadcrumbs. This will make the breading process organized and efficient.
3. Coat cheese sticks: Take each mozzarella stick and coat it first in flour, shaking off excess. Then dip it into the egg ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture to create an even coating.
4. Freeze coated sticks: Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for up to one hour. This step helps the coating adhere better and prevents cheese from leaking during cooking.
5. Preheat air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for a couple of minutes.
6. Cook mozzarella sticks: Arrange the frozen sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 4 minutes, then carefully flip each stick over.
7. Continue cooking: Cook for an additional 4 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is melted.
8. Serve: Remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer and serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy!

Notes

• Not all air fryers cook the same; watch the mozzarella sticks closely to avoid overcooking or burning.
• Freezing the sticks after breading is crucial to keep the cheese from melting too fast and leaking out.
• Use Parmesan cheese instead of breadcrumbs for a low-carb alternative.
• For crispier sticks, you can spray a little cooking oil before air frying.
• Serve immediately as mozzarella sticks are best enjoyed hot and melty.

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, air fryer mozzarella sticks, appetizer, snack, Italian, breaded cheese sticks, easy recipe