Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Craving a tasty, crunchy appetizer? These Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect solution! With a crispy outside and gooey, melted cheese inside, they’re a healthier alternative to deep-fried snacks. Enjoy them as a delicious treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Mozzarella Sticks:
- 12 oz mozzarella cheese block, not pre-shredded
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs preferably Italian-style
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Dipping:
- Marinara sauce or ranch dressing for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Cheese:
- Cut the mozzarella cheese into 1-inch thick sticks.
Set Up Breading Station:
- In three shallow dishes, prepare your breading station:
- First Dish: Place the all-purpose flour.
- Second Dish: Beat the eggs.
- Third Dish: Mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bread the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Dredge each mozzarella stick first in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat the stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the breading adhere.
- Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a plate or baking sheet.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Arrange the breaded mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Ensure they do not touch for even cooking.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown.
Serve:
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara or ranch dressing.
Notes
- Tip for Extra Crispiness: Lightly spray the breaded sticks with cooking spray before air frying for an even crunchier exterior.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.