Air Fried Mozzarella Sticks (Printable)

Crunchy, melty mozzarella sticks air-fried for the perfect golden bite. Great for snacks or appetizers.

# Ingredient List:

→ Cheese

01 - 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, each cut in half if shorter sticks are preferred

→ Breading

02 - 2 large eggs
03 - 2 tablespoons whole milk
04 - 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
05 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
08 - 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
09 - 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
11 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Cooking Spray

12 - Nonstick olive oil or canola spray

# How to Make:

01 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
02 - Arrange mozzarella sticks on the sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes until firm.
03 - Whisk eggs and milk together in a shallow mixing bowl.
04 - In another bowl, combine Italian breadcrumbs, panko, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
05 - Dip each frozen mozzarella stick into the egg mixture, then coat fully in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
06 - Repeat dipping in egg and breadcrumbs for a double layer to maximize crispness.
07 - Return breaded sticks to the parchment-lined tray and freeze for an additional 20 minutes.
08 - Set air fryer to 400°F and allow to preheat.
09 - Lightly coat air fryer basket with nonstick spray.
10 - Place cheese sticks in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not touch.
11 - Lightly spray tops of sticks with oil.
12 - Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning halfway through, until coating is golden and crisp.
13 - Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Quick to make and crowd pleasing
  • No deep fry mess and cleanup
  • Customizable coatings for your taste
  • Healthier than restaurant versions
  • Perfect snack or appetizer for parties
02 -
  • High in protein and calcium
  • Crowd pleaser for all ages
  • Simple pantry friendly ingredients
03 -
  • Double breading is key for crunch and leak proof cheese
  • To avoid soggy edges do not skip the final freeze
  • If you like spicy add a pinch of cayenne to the breading mix
  • Taste the coating mixture before breading to adjust seasoning to your liking
  • Cheese melts quickly so always keep an eye on your fryer during the last minute

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