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Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

A stack of crispy, golden brown Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks on a white plate, with one stick broken open showing melted cheese.

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Make perfectly crispy mozzarella sticks in your air fryer, using either frozen or homemade sticks, for a quick snack or appetizer.

Ingredients

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  • 12 frozen or fresh mozzarella sticks
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. If using fresh mozzarella, freeze the sticks for at least 2 hours to prevent excessive melting.
  2. Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes. Place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and a mix of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt in the third.
  3. Dredge each mozzarella stick first in the flour, shaking off excess.
  4. Dip the floured stick into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
  5. Coat the stick thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs. For extra crispness, repeat the egg dip and breadcrumb coating (double dip).
  6. Lightly spray the breaded sticks with cooking spray.
  7. Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit (195 degrees Celsius).
  8. Place the mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Work in batches if necessary.
  9. Air fry for 6 to 9 minutes, flipping halfway through. The sticks are done when they are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
  10. Remove carefully and serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For the best results with frozen sticks, do not thaw them before breading and cooking.
  • If you notice the cheese starting to ooze out during cooking, reduce the temperature by 10 degrees Fahrenheit for the remaining time.
  • Serve with warm marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

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