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My go-to quick snack when guests pop in is these crunchy mozzarella sticks made right in the air fryer. They have a crispy outside with gooey cheese inside, and you skip the deep frying mess.
I whipped these up one night during a movie and now they're my favorite quick treat whenever we want something homemade but chill.
What You Need
- Mozzarella string cheese: halves are best so you get just-right bites that cook and eat easier. Pick firm, fresh cheese that’s well wrapped to avoid freezer damage
- Flour: helps the coating stick to the cheese for a nice even crisp
- Eggs: beaten, they act like glue to hold breadcrumbs on
- Panko breadcrumbs: these give a light but crispy crunch. Plain or lightly salted works great
- Salt: brings out flavor in the coating
- Black pepper: a touch of spice that balances the rich cheese
- Cooking spray: helps make a golden crust without soaking in oil
How To Make Them
- Freeze The Cheese:
- Pop the cheese halves in the freezer for at least an hour. This stops the cheese from melting out while cooking and keeps its shape.
- Set Up Your Coating:
- Get three shallow bowls ready. Put flour in one to dry the cheese a bit. Beat eggs in another as the sticky part. Mix panko with salt and pepper in the last bowl for flavor and crunch.
- Coat Each Stick:
- Coat sticks one by one. Roll frozen cheese in flour first with a light dusting. Then dip fully in eggs. Press them into the panko mix so they’re covered well, which stops cheese from leaking.
- Line Them Up:
- Put coated sticks in a single layer on a plate or tray while you finish the batch so they don’t stick and keep the coating crisp.
- Warm Up The Air Fryer:
- Heat it to 380°F (190°C) before adding the sticks. This gets them crisp right away.
- Cook The Sticks:
- Spray air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to stop sticking. Place sticks so they aren’t touching for even air. Cook 6 minutes, flipping halfway for golden crust.
- Eat While Hot:
- Serve quick for melty cheese and crunch. Pair with marinara or your favorite dip.
The crunchy outside with perfectly melted cheese inside is my favorite part. When my kids tried them, they immediately asked for more, making this our go-to snack to share.
Keeping Leftovers
Swap Ideas
Ways To Serve
Seasonal Flavors
This always delivers crunchy and melty mozzarella sticks that work for any time you want a satisfying snack. Give it a go and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Why do you freeze mozzarella sticks before cooking?
Freezing makes sure the cheese doesn’t melt out while air frying and keeps its shape.
- → How can I get the crust to stick better?
First cover sticks in flour, dunk in whisked eggs, then press into the panko crumbs evenly.
- → Is it okay to cook several sticks at once?
Place sticks in one layer without overlapping so they cook evenly. If you have lots, cook them in batches.
- → What air fryer temp works best?
Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for a crispy outside and melty cheese inside.
- → What’s a good sauce to dip these in?
Marinara is a classic choice, but ranch or garlic aioli also work great.