Air-fried mozzarella sticks are the perfect appetizer or snack, offering the classic crispy, gooey cheese center without the excess oil from deep-frying. Coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and cooked in the air fryer, these mozzarella sticks are golden and delicious, providing the same indulgence but in a healthier, lower-fat way. Serve with marinara sauce for a delicious dip!
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 mozzarella sticks (string cheese)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Olive oil spray
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Directions:
- Freeze the mozzarella sticks: Place the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 1 hour. This helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during cooking.
- Prepare the breading station:
- In the first shallow bowl, place the flour.
- In the second shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
- In the third shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt.
- Coat the mozzarella sticks: Dredge each frozen mozzarella stick first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps to double coat.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the mozzarella sticks: Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange the breaded mozzarella sticks in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching. Air-fry at 375°F for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Let them cool for a minute and serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes (plus freezing time)
- Cook time: 6-8 minutes
- Total time: 16-18 minutes (not including freezing time)
Servings:
- This recipe serves 2-3 people (6-8 mozzarella sticks).
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, based on 3 servings):
- Calories: ~270
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the type of mozzarella and breadcrumbs used.
Key Notes:
- Freezing: Freezing the mozzarella sticks before breading and cooking is essential for ensuring they stay intact while cooking and don’t leak cheese. Make sure to freeze them for at least an hour.
- Double coating: For extra crispiness, you can double coat the mozzarella sticks with egg and breadcrumbs.
- Dipping sauces: Serve with marinara, ranch dressing, or garlic butter sauce for added flavor.
- Storage: Leftover mozzarella sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for about 2-3 minutes to retain their crispiness.
These air-fried mozzarella sticks offer a healthier, guilt-free way to enjoy your favorite cheesy snack!