Description: Golden, crunchy mozzarella sticks with a gooey, cheesy center make for the ultimate party snack. Served with marinara sauce, they’re a holiday favorite for kids and adults alike.
Recipe:
- Servings: 4-6 people (approx. 12 sticks)
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Ingredients:
- 12 mozzarella sticks
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Olive oil spray
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions:
- Prepare Mozzarella Sticks: Freeze mozzarella sticks for at least 1 hour to prevent melting during cooking.
- Set Up Breading Station: Place flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning into separate bowls.
- Bread the Mozzarella Sticks: Coat each stick in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat in the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 190°C (375°F).
- Cook: Place the breaded mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with olive oil. Cook for 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Arrange on a plate with marinara sauce and garnish with parsley.
Nutritional Information (Per Stick):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Sodium: 190mg
Notes:
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
- These can be made ahead and frozen after breading for easy reheating later.
- Serve with ranch or garlic aioli for a dipping sauce variation.
Let me know if you’d like additional holiday recipes or variations! 😊