Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Prep 15 min | Cook 10 min | Ready in 25 min
Ingredients:
12 mozzarella sticks (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or olive oil, for spraying
Optional: Marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for serving.
Instructions:
Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks:
If using store-bought mozzarella sticks, follow the package instructions for freezing them. If making homemade mozzarella sticks, cut the mozzarella into 3-inch long sticks, about 1/2 inch thick.
Set Up Breading Stations:
In three separate shallow dishes, place the all-purpose flour in one, beaten eggs in the second, and the breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third.
Bread the Mozzarella Sticks:
Take each mozzarella stick and coat it in flour, shaking off any excess.
Dip the flour-coated stick into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
Roll the stick in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the surface.
Freeze the Breaded Mozzarella Sticks:
Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined tray or plate and freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the breading adhere better during the air frying process.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Place the frozen mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don't touch each other. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches.
Cook the mozzarella sticks in the preheated air fryer for 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Be sure to turn them halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
Serve:
Remove the air-fried mozzarella sticks from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
Serve the crispy mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious and satisfying snack or appetizer.
These Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are a fantastic treat that's easy to make and far healthier than traditional deep-fried versions. Enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness with a satisfying crunch!
