Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are a fantastic snack or appetizer that everyone loves. They’re crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, just the way mozzarella sticks should be. Using an air fryer means you can enjoy this classic treat with less oil, making it a healthier option. Plus, they’re super easy to make and perfect for parties or game nights.
How to Make Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients:
- 12 mozzarella sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Directions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each mozzarella stick in flour, then the egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange the coated sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Air fry for about 6-8 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Serve immediately with marinara sauce.
How to Serve Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
To enjoy your Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks, serve them hot out of the air fryer. Pair them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. They make a great appetizer or a fun snack for movie nights. You can also sprinkle some extra Italian seasoning or grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
How to Store Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
If you have any leftover mozzarella sticks, let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until they are warm and crispy again.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
- Make sure the mozzarella sticks are frozen before breading. This helps them hold their shape while cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Fry in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- For extra crispiness, spray the sticks with a little more cooking spray before air frying.
Variation
You can spice things up by adding different seasonings to the breadcrumbs. Try using garlic powder, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne for some heat. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack or cheddar, for a fun twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use string cheese?
Yes, string cheese works well! Just be sure to freeze it first for the best results.
2. Can I make these in the oven instead of an air fryer?
Absolutely! Bake them on a lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. How can I make these gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make these mozzarella sticks suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each mozzarella stick in flour, then the egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange the coated sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Air fry for about 6-8 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping.