Crispy, fried cheese without all the oil.
Crispy, melty mozzarella sticks are a favorite appetizer, especially during Super Bowl season. But we think they’re even better homemade, especially when you use your air fryer. This handy countertop appliance ensures golden, crunchy results—without all the oil! The only thing that could make this game day snack better? A bowl of marinara for dipping!
How do you make crispy air fryer mozzarella sticks?
The key to a crispy, crunchy texture is to make sure there’s ample room between each stick when air frying. Overcrowding the air fryer basket can prevent the air from circulating properly resulting is not-so-crispy mozzarella sticks.
How long should you air fry mozzarella sticks?
Because air fryers range in size and power, we recommend starting to check on each batch after about 5 minutes. At 390 degrees, you’ll likely need between 6 and 7 minutes. A good rule of thumb: Once you see any cheese start to bubble out, they’re ready.
How do you keep mozzarella sticks from exploding in the air fryer?
Freezing the mozzarella sticks and doubling up on the breadcrumb coating helps to prevent too much cheese spillage in the air fryer. In this air fryer recipe, after the mozzarella sticks are dredged in eggs, flour, eggs (again), and breadcrumbs, they’re frozen for 30 minutes. After the initial freeze, they’re dipped in eggs and covered with more breadcrumbs before being frozen for another 30 minutes. Be sure to firmly press the bread crumbs in to each cheese stick so that the gooey cheese stays inside of the coating.
How do you season mozzarella sticks?
A touch of paprika adds an extra layer of flavor and gives these snacks a smoked mozzarella taste. But the spice variation possibilities are endless—Colby Jack or pepper Jack sticks can be substituted for the plain mozzarella variety, too.
How long do mozzarella sticks last in the freezer?
Want to prep a batch of air fryer mozzarella sticks and store them in the freezer for future snacking? Be our guest! You can prepare the mozzarella sticks through step 4. Once the sticks are frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 6 months. Air fry the sticks straight from frozen anytime a craving strikes!
Ingredients
- 8 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp. water
- 1/2 c. breadcrumbs
- 1/2 c. panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning blend
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1/3 c. all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
- Nonstick cooking spray
- Marinara sauce, to serve
Directions
STEP1
Cut the cheese sticks in half, crosswise. Set aside.
STEP2
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and water. In another small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, panko, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, stirring well. In a third bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper, stirring well.
STEP3
Dip each of the cheese sticks into the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture. Dip back into the eggs, then dredge in the bread crumb mixture, pressing to coat well.
STEP4
Place the sticks on a small parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, dip each of the sticks back into the eggs, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to coat well. Freeze for 30 minutes more.
STEP5
Preheat the air fryer to 390°F, if required. Spray the fryer basket with cooking spray. Generously coat the frozen sticks with cooking spray. Working in 2 batches, place the sticks in the basket in a single layer. Cook 6 to 7 minutes or until browned and crispy. (Keep an eye on them so they do not overcook or the cheese will start to bubble out.)
STEP6
Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce.
Tip: Set up your dipping and dredging bowls with the egg mixture in the middle for less mess and quicker dipping.