“Make the best Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks with this easy recipe! Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, these homemade mozzarella sticks are a healthier snack or appetizer option. Learn how to bread, freeze, and cook them perfectly for game days, parties, or a quick family treat. Includes tips, variations, and serving suggestions. Serve with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing favorite!”

Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are a quick and delicious snack or appetizer. Made with simple ingredients and ready in minutes, they’re perfect for game days, parties, or anytime you’re craving cheesy goodness.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

8 mozzarella string cheese sticks
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil (or cooking spray)
2/3 cup marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Sticks:
Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and cut each in half to create 16 pieces.
Set Up the Breading Station:
- Place the flour in one shallow bowl.
- Whisk the eggs in a second shallow bowl.
- In a third shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Bread the Cheese Sticks:
Dredge each mozzarella stick in the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Dip it into the whisked eggs, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Freeze the Sticks:
Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring space between each stick. Freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during cooking.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
Cook the Mozzarella Sticks:
Lightly brush the mozzarella sticks with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Arrange them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each stick. Cook for 5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent the cheese from oozing out.
Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips

Freezing is key: Don’t skip the freezing step; it ensures the cheese doesn’t melt before the coating gets crispy.
Even coating: Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the cheese sticks for a crispy, even coating.
Cooking spray hack: Use an olive oil spray for even browning and a lighter texture.

Variations and Substitutions

Seasoning: Add paprika, cayenne, or grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor.
Cheese options: Experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack or cheddar sticks.
Gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Bread the mozzarella sticks and freeze them for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen when ready to serve.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake them in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 8-10 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.

Why is my cheese leaking?
This usually happens if the sticks weren’t frozen long enough or the air fryer temperature is too high.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for dipping.
Serve as an appetizer alongside wings, sliders, or nachos.
Enjoy as a snack with a refreshing beverage or a side salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in just minutes with minimal prep.
Healthier option: Uses less oil than traditional frying.
Kid-approved: A fun and cheesy snack everyone will love!

Indulge in the crispy, gooey perfection of these Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks!