Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Crispy, Cheesy, and Absolutely Irresistible

Mozzarella sticks are a classic appetizer loved for their crispy exterior and gooey, melty cheese inside. When made in an air fryer, they become even more appealing—delivering that perfect crunch with significantly less oil than traditional deep frying. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or just craving some comfort food, these homemade air fryer mozzarella sticks are a must-try!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative – Uses minimal oil compared to deep-fried versions.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, with simple ingredients.
• Crispy & Gooey – The perfect balance of crunch on the outside and melty cheese on the inside.
• Freezer-Friendly – Prep ahead and store for a convenient snack anytime.

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Ingredients

• 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray
• Marinara sauce (for dipping, optional)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Cheese Sticks

Cut the mozzarella sticks in half, creating 24 smaller sticks. Place them on a tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for best results). This prevents them from melting too quickly in the air fryer.

2. Set Up the Breading Stations

• In a shallow dish, mix the flour with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together.
• In a third dish, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs and panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

3. Bread the Mozzarella Sticks

• Roll each frozen mozzarella stick in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.
• Dip into the egg mixture, coating it fully.
• Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
• Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for an extra crispy crust.

4. Freeze Again

Place the coated mozzarella sticks back on the tray and freeze for another 15-30 minutes. This step helps maintain their shape while cooking.

5. Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
• Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
• Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch.
• Air fry for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy with warm marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce!

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Variations and Tips

• Extra Crispy Coating – Double-coat the mozzarella sticks for an even crunchier bite.
• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
• Cheese Varieties – Try different cheeses like pepper jack or cheddar for a fun twist.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
• Make Ahead – Bread and freeze mozzarella sticks in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen when ready.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus freezing time)
• Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
• Total Time: 30-45 minutes (including freezing)

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked, breaded mozzarella sticks in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent my mozzarella sticks from melting in the air fryer?

Freezing the cheese sticks before air frying is essential. This prevents them from melting too quickly before the outer crust crisps up.

Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of string cheese?

Fresh mozzarella has a higher moisture content, making it more prone to melting too fast. Stick with low-moisture mozzarella sticks for best results.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Yes, preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve a crispy exterior.

Why are my mozzarella sticks not crispy?

Make sure to double-coat them with breadcrumbs and avoid overcrowding in the air fryer, which can cause steaming instead of crisping.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Bread the sticks, freeze them, and store for up to 3 months. Cook straight from frozen when ready.

What dipping sauces go well with mozzarella sticks?

Classic marinara is a favorite, but you can also try ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo.

How do I prevent breadcrumbs from falling off?

Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the sticks and double-coat them for a stronger crust.

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Can I use store-bought breaded mozzarella sticks?

Yes, but making them fresh at home gives you more control over ingredients and flavor.

How do I make them even crunchier?

Adding panko breadcrumbs to the mix enhances crispiness, and an extra coating layer helps, too.

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Conclusion

Air fryer mozzarella sticks are an easy, delicious, and healthier way to enjoy this classic snack. With a perfectly crispy coating and gooey cheese center, they’re great for parties, movie nights, or anytime cravings hit. Plus, they can be prepped ahead for a convenient, freezer-friendly snack. Try this recipe and enjoy the perfect balance of crunch and cheesiness in every bite!

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