Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside—Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate cheesy snack. No deep-frying needed! With a golden breadcrumb crust and melty center, they’re fast, fun, and family-approved.
Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks (cut in half for 24 mini sticks, optional)
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How To Make Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
- Prep the Cheese:
Unwrap the cheese sticks and cut them in half (optional for bite-size). Freeze for at least 1 hour or overnight to prevent melting too quickly in the air fryer. - Set Up Breading Stations:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Mix breadcrumbs, panko, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley
- Bread the Sticks:
Roll each frozen cheese stick in flour → dip in egg → coat with breadcrumb mix. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step (double coating). - Freeze Again:
Place breaded sticks on a tray and freeze for 30 more minutes. This step ensures they stay intact and don’t explode in the air fryer. - Air Fry:
Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Spray the basket and the sticks with cooking spray.
Air fry for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. - Serve Hot:
Best served immediately with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce!
You Must Know
- Freezing is Essential: Without it, the cheese melts too fast and leaks out before the coating crisps up.
- Double Coat for Extra Crunch: Adds more texture and protects the cheese inside.
- Use Panko + Italian Breadcrumbs: The combo delivers perfect crispiness and flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Spray: It helps the coating crisp evenly in the air fryer.
Topping Variations
- Grated Parmesan and chopped parsley after cooking
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat
- Truffle oil drizzle for a gourmet touch
- Lemon zest and Italian herbs for brightness
- Crushed ranch-seasoning mix in the breadcrumb blend
Make It a Meal
- Snack Platter: Pair with marinara, ranch, garlic aioli, or pesto for dipping.
- Game Day Tray: Serve alongside wings, sliders, and nachos.
- Kid-Friendly Dinner: Pair with air fryer chicken nuggets and fruit.
- Cheesy Appetizer Board: Add to a cheese + charcuterie board for a fun twist.
Pro Tips
- Freeze twice: Once before breading, once after—it’s the trick to success.
- Preheat the air fryer: It guarantees crispy exteriors from the start.
- Work quickly: Minimize handling time between freezer and air fryer.
- Don’t overcrowd: Leave space between sticks so they crisp evenly.
- Serve immediately: They’re best hot and gooey!
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh mozzarella?
A: It’s too moist and soft for this recipe. Stick with string cheese for best results.
Q: Can I bake instead of air fry?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F (205°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once. They won’t be quite as crispy but still delicious.
Q: Can I prep these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Bread and freeze them in advance—just air fry when ready to serve.
Q: Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
A: Yes! Make sure your flour and breadcrumbs are gluten-free to suit dietary needs.
Q: How do I keep leftovers crispy?
A: Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes. Avoid microwaving—they’ll turn soggy.
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Easy air fryer mozzarella sticks are a cheesy, gooey appetizer or snack made with just six everyday ingredients. A homemade cheese stick that is breaded and air fried to crispy, crunchy perfection and filled with melty cheese. Perfect for dipping in marinara or ranch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8
- Category: Appetizers
Ingredients
- 4 mozzarella cheese sticks cut in half
- 1 cup panko
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg beaten
- ¼ cup flour
- olive oil for spritzing
- marinara sauce or ranch for dipping
Instructions
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Preheat airfryer to 390° F for 5 minutes.
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Cut mozzarella sticks in half to make 8 sticks. Add beaten egg to a second shallow bowl and flour in a third bowl.4 mozzarella cheese sticks, 1 large egg, ¼ cup flour
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To a small, shallow bowl, combine panko, garlic powder, and salt.1 cup panko, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt
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To another small bowl, add an egg and beat until frothy.
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To a third small bowl, add the flour. Make an assembly line.
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Roll mozzarella sticks in flour, then dip in egg, turning to cover all sides. Place into panko, covering with a spoon and pressing cheese firmly into panko.
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Repeat this process twice with each mozzarella stick. Place on paper plate or parchment lined, freezer safe dish and freeze for 15 minutes.
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Place mozzarella sticks into air fryer basket and spray or brush with oil. Cook 5 minutes or until golden brown. Air fryer cook times vary so check after 5 minutes – you may need 6-8 minutes.olive oil
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Serve with dipping sauces.marinara sauce or ranch
Notes
- Whole milk cheese sticks work best, but low-moisture is okay.
- Keep one hand dry when coating to help panko stick.
- Freeze at least 15 mins (or overnight if prepping ahead).
- Store leftovers in fridge up to 2 days; reheat briefly.
- Freeze uncooked sticks up to 3 months; use freezer-safe container.
