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air fryer mozzarella stick recipe

air fryer mozzarella stick recipe
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Enjoy crispy, golden mozzarella sticks with a gooey cheese center using this easy air fryer recipe. Ready in under 20 minutes, these snacks offer a healthier, mess-free alternative to deep frying, producing perfectly crunchy bites that are customizable with your favorite seasonings and coatings. Ideal for quick appetizers or satisfying snacks, these air fryer mozzarella sticks are loved by kids and guests alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese

  • 8 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese or mozzarella logs cut into 3–4 inch sticks)

Coating

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs or panko crumbs
  • Optional seasonings: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Italian herbs, 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Cooking spray (for crisping)

Variations (Optional)

  • Gluten-Free: substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour
  • Spicy: add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to breadcrumb mix
  • Parmesan Boost: mix 1/4 cup grated Parmesan into breadcrumbs
  • Herb Infusion: add fresh chopped basil or oregano to coating
  • Vegan: use vegan mozzarella sticks and flaxseed “egg” (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese Sticks: Cut mozzarella into evenly sized sticks about 3-4 inches long if not using pre-cut string cheese. Freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent cheese from melting too quickly during cooking.
  2. Set Up Your Breading Stations: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs combined with optional seasonings if using. This setup ensures a tight coating on each stick.
  3. Coat the Cheese Sticks: Lightly dust each frozen mozzarella stick with flour, dip into beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, repeat dipping into egg and breadcrumbs once more.
  4. Preheat and Arrange in the Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Place coated sticks in a single layer inside the basket with space between them for air circulation.
  5. Air Fry Until Golden and Melty: Spray the sticks lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, watching carefully to prevent cheese from leaking out.
  6. Serve Immediately: Let the mozzarella sticks cool for 1-2 minutes before serving to enjoy warm, gooey cheese inside with a crispy crust.

Notes

  • Freeze cheese sticks before breading to prevent cheese leakage during cooking.
  • Double coating with egg and breadcrumbs adds extra crunch.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
  • Lightly spray cooking spray before air frying for a golden crust.
  • Monitor cooking time closely to avoid overcooking and cheese leaks.

Nutrition

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, air fryer, appetizer, snack, crispy cheese sticks, healthier fried cheese

Find it online: https://withnora.com/air-fryer-mozzarella-stick-recipe/