Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a gooey, cheesy mozzarella stick. When made in an air fryer, these delightful snacks come out crispy on the outside and perfectly melty on the inside, without the greasiness of traditional frying. Whether you’re preparing for a game-day snack, a cozy movie night, or just a simple treat for yourself, this Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks recipe is a game changer. Let’s dive into how you can make these cheesy bites right at home!

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are not just delicious; they are also a healthier alternative to their deep-fried counterparts. By using an air fryer, you cut down on excess oil while still achieving that perfect crunch. Plus, they’re quick and easy to prepare, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The combination of gooey cheese, crispy coating, and flavorful seasonings means these sticks will disappear fast!

Gather These Ingredients

• 12 low-moisture string cheese sticks, halved (I like the Sargento brand)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (I use regular, panko may be substituted for extra crunchy sticks)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• Cooking spray
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

Setup & Equipment

• Air Fryer: Essential for achieving that crispy texture without frying.
• Shallow Bowls: For setting up your breading station.
• Cooking Spray: To ensure your mozzarella sticks don’t stick to the basket.
• Spatula: Helpful for flipping and removing the sticks from the air fryer.

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese

Start by taking your string cheese sticks and cutting them in half. This will give you perfectly sized mozzarella sticks that are easy to handle and dip.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In three shallow bowls, prepare your breading station. In the first bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. In the second bowl, place the beaten eggs. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Bread the Cheese Sticks

Take each mozzarella stick half and dip it into the flour mixture, coating it completely. Shake off any excess flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s well coated. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well. Repeat this process for all cheese sticks.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown exterior.

Step 5: Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded mozzarella sticks in the basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. Spray the tops of the sticks lightly with cooking spray to help them brown.

Step 6: Cook Until Golden

Air fry the mozzarella sticks for about 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook. They should be golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

While the mozzarella sticks are cooking, heat a small saucepan over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer until heated through.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the mozzarella sticks are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve hot with the marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy that ooey-gooey cheese goodness!

Year-Round Variations

• Add some heat by mixing crushed red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture.
• Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack or cheddar, for a twist on the classic flavor.
• For a healthier option, try using whole wheat flour and whole grain breadcrumbs.
• Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into the breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

• Make sure to adequately coat the cheese sticks in each step of the breading process; this ensures that the coating sticks properly and doesn’t fall off during cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Allow the mozzarella sticks to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth on the melted cheese!

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

You can prepare the mozzarella sticks ahead of time and freeze them before cooking. Place the breaded sticks on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can cook them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Leftover cooked mozzarella sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to restore some crunch.

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Q&A

Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of string cheese?

While fresh mozzarella can be used, it tends to be more watery and may not hold its shape as well during frying. If you choose to use fresh mozzarella, consider freezing it for about 30 minutes before breading to help it maintain its form.

How do I make these gluten-free?

To make Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. There are many excellent gluten-free breadcrumbs available that will work perfectly in this recipe.

What dipping sauce can I use besides marinara?

Besides marinara, you can serve your mozzarella sticks with ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or even a sweet chili sauce for a twist. Feel free to get creative with your favorite dips!

Can I bake these mozzarella sticks instead of air frying them?

Yes, you can bake these mozzarella sticks! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

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Final Bite

These Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are sure to become a family favorite. With their crispy exterior and gooey center, they make the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can whip them up anytime the craving strikes. So gather your ingredients, preheat that air fryer, and get ready to enjoy some delicious, homemade mozzarella sticks!