Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside—these homemade mozzarella sticks are a game changer. No deep frying, no greasy mess, just perfectly golden cheese sticks made right in the air fryer. Perfect for snacks, appetizers, or whenever that cheesy craving hits!
Ingredients
- 8 string cheese sticks cut in half for smaller sticks
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika optional
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- Cooking spray
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
Step 1: Freeze the Cheese
- Place cut string cheese on a tray and freeze for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- Bowl 1: Add flour.
- Bowl 2: Whisk together eggs and milk.
- Bowl 3: Mix breadcrumbs, panko, and seasonings.
Step 3: Coat the Cheese Sticks
- Roll each frozen cheese stick in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip in egg mixture.
- Roll in breadcrumb mixture, pressing to coat.
- Repeat steps 2 & 3 for a double coating.
- Freeze again for at least 30 minutes.
Step 4: Air Fry
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
- Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place mozzarella sticks in a single layer and spray tops lightly.
- Air fry for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let them cool for a minute, then dip in marinara sauce and enjoy!