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Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

These crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect cheesy snack—golden on the outside, gooey on the inside, and much healthier than deep-fried versions. Made with simple ingredients and cooked quickly in the air fryer, they’re ideal for parties, appetizers, or pairing with your favorite air fryer recipes. Freezer-friendly and kid-approved!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients
  • 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 tablespoon milk optional
  • 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Olive oil spray

Method
 

  1. Freeze Cheese Sticks
  2. Place the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for 30–60 minutes. This step is essential to prevent the cheese from melting out during cooking.
  3. Prepare Breading Stations
  4. In one bowl, add flour.
  5. In a second bowl, whisk eggs and milk.
  6. In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs, panko, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  7. Bread the Mozzarella
  8. Coat each frozen cheese stick in flour, then dip in the egg wash, and roll in the breadcrumb mixture.
  9. For best results, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for a thicker crust.
  10. Preheat the Air Fryer
  11. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
  12. Cook the Mozzarella Sticks
  13. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil.
  14. Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer and spray the tops.
  15. Air fry for 6–8 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  16. Serve Hot
  17. Enjoy immediately with marinara sauce, ranch, garlic dip, or your favorite sauce.

Notes

Freezing is crucial—if the sticks aren’t frozen long enough, the cheese may burst.
Double coating is the key to a crispy crust and preventing leaks.
Cook in batches if your air fryer is small; overcrowding reduces crispiness.
These can be frozen after breading—store in a freezer bag and air fry directly from frozen.
Pair with other air fryer favorites like air fryer chicken wings, air fryer chicken breast, or air fryer salmon.