Description
Crispy, golden-brown mozzarella sticks made easy in the air fryer! Perfect appetizer or snack, ready in minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 package (16 ounces) mozzarella cheese sticks, cut in half
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups Italian seasoned bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes. Dish 1: Flour. Dish 2: Beaten eggs. Dish 3: Combine bread crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Coat Mozzarella Sticks:
- Flour: Dredge each stick in flour, shake off excess.
- Egg: Dip in beaten egg, let excess drip off.
- Breadcrumbs: Press firmly into breadcrumb mixture, ensuring full coverage.
- Double Breading (Optional): Repeat egg and breadcrumb steps for extra crispiness.
- Freeze: Place breaded sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for at least 30 minutes (or longer).
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Air Fry: Arrange frozen sticks in a single layer in the basket (cook in batches if needed). Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from air fryer, let cool for a minute or two. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Freezing is crucial to prevent cheese leakage.
- Double breading is highly recommended for extra crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- Watch closely while cooking to prevent overcooking.
- Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or sriracha mayo are great dipping options.
- Experiment with different seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes