Name: Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients: 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks: Cut in half for 24 smaller pieces, the star of the dish known for its gooey stretch and rich flavor.; 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs: Alternatively, use panko for an extra crispy texture.; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the first layer of coating that helps all other coatings adhere.; 2 large eggs: Beaten and creates a binding agent for the breadcrumbs.; 1 tablespoon milk: Optional, but helps create a slicker egg wash.; 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth to the flavor profile.; 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall taste and aroma.; 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Gives an herbal note reminiscent of Italian cuisine.; 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds to the authenticity of the dish.; 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing the flavors.; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Introduces a mild heat.; 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Optional, for a touch of color and flavor.; Cooking spray or olive oil spray: To achieve that gorgeous golden finish.; Marinara sauce or ranch dressing: For dipping, bringing the dish together.

Description

Make crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks with a crunchy coating and gooey cheese center. A perfect appetizer or snack, ready in minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

12 mozzarella string cheese sticks: Cut in half for 24 smaller pieces, the star of the dish known for its gooey stretch and rich flavor.
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs: Alternatively, use panko for an extra crispy texture.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the first layer of coating that helps all other coatings adhere.
2 large eggs: Beaten and creates a binding agent for the breadcrumbs.
1 tablespoon milk: Optional, but helps create a slicker egg wash.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth to the flavor profile.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall taste and aroma.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Gives an herbal note reminiscent of Italian cuisine.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds to the authenticity of the dish.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Introduces a mild heat.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Optional, for a touch of color and flavor.
Cooking spray or olive oil spray: To achieve that gorgeous golden finish.
Marinara sauce or ranch dressing: For dipping, bringing the dish together.

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese: Unwrap each mozzarella string cheese and cut them in half. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 1-2 hours. This ensures the cheese doesn’t melt too quickly during cooking.
Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three separate bowls: one with 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, one with 2 large beaten eggs mixed with 1 tablespoon milk (optional), and one with 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs mixed with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika (if using).
Coat the Mozzarella Sticks: Remove the frozen cheese sticks from the freezer. Dip each stick into the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated, then transfer it to the egg mixture, and finally roll in the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crispiness, repeat the dipping in egg and breadcrumb mixtures.
Freeze Again: Place the coated mozzarella sticks back onto the parchment-lined tray and freeze for another 30-60 minutes. This step is crucial to maintain the cheese’s shape while cooking.
Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer. Spray the tops lightly with oil and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the mozzarella sticks cool for 1-2 minutes after cooking. Serve hot with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.