I can’t tell you how excited I am to share this recipe for Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks with you! Honestly, there’s something about biting into that crispy exterior to reveal gooey, melty cheese that sends me straight to flavor town. I remember the first time I made these—my friends popped over for a movie night, and I thought it would be a fun treat. Let’s just say they disappeared faster than popcorn during an action film!
These mozzarella sticks are fantastic for any gathering or just a cozy night in. They’re quick to whip up, and the best part? You don’t have to deal with the hassle of deep-frying. Using an air fryer means they come out perfectly crispy but without all the grease. So, let’s dive in!
What’s in Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks?
12 Mozzarella Cheese Sticks: The star of the show! I prefer using full-fat mozzarella for that rich cheesy flavor.
1 Cup All-Purpose Flour: This will help the egg mixture adhere to the mozzarella sticks. Make sure to tap off any excess flour for best results.
2 Large Eggs: These act as the binder, ensuring that the breadcrumbs stick beautifully to each cheese stick. I always make sure they’re at room temperature for easier whisking.
1 Cup Breadcrumbs: Panko is my go-to for that extra irresistible crunch! You could use regular breadcrumbs, but why not go for the gold?
1/2 Teaspoon Garlic Powder: Just a hint of flavor that elevates the overall taste.
1/2 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning: This adds a lovely herbal flavor that truly complements the mozzarella.
1/4 Teaspoon Salt and Pepper: These add basic seasoning but pack a punch of flavor.
Olive Oil Spray: A light mist of olive oil helps get that golden-brown, crispy texture without the guilt.
Marinara Sauce: What’s a mozzarella stick without a delicious dip? I always go for a good homemade marinara, but store-bought works wonders too!
Are Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Good for You?
First off, let’s get real—these mozzarella sticks are a treat, not a health food. But I promise, they can fit into a balanced diet!
Cheese: Mozzarella is a good source of calcium and protein, which is always a plus. Just keep an eye on the portion size, especially if you’re planning on eating a bunch during movie night!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These have a delightful crunch and are lighter than regular breadcrumbs, so they’re a bit easier on the calories while still delivering that satisfying bite.
On the flip side, the flour and breadcrumbs do add carbs, and frying (even in an air fryer) can still lead to an indulgent dish. Moderation is key here, folks!
Ingredients List
– 12 mozzarella cheese sticks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pepper
– Olive oil spray (for air frying)
– Marinara sauce (for dipping)
This recipe will serve about 4 people, unless you’re like me and decide to devour half of them before serving!
How to Make Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks?
1. Start by freezing the mozzarella sticks for at least 1 hour. This helps to prevent them from melting too quickly in the air fryer.
2. Set up a breading station: In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the frozen mozzarella sticks from the freezer. Coat each stick in flour, shaking off the excess.
4. Dip each floured stick into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
5. Roll each stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs well.
6. Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a plate or tray and spray them lightly with olive oil spray.
7. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
8. Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
9. Cook the mozzarella sticks in the air fryer for 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and melty, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
10. Carefully remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
11. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
Cheesy Tips and Variations
For added flavor, consider mixing some grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture. Trust me; you won’t regret it! If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix for a bit of heat.
And let me tell you—these mozzarella sticks can be enjoyed fresh but are best served immediately for the most delicious cheesy experience. Pair them with a crisp salad and a glass of your favorite drink, and voilà! You have a delicious meal or snack that’s hard to beat.
I hope you give these Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks a try! They’re a breeze to make, and I promise the ooey-gooey goodness is worth every bite. Let me know how yours turn out; I can’t wait to hear about your cheesy adventures!
