Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these crispy, golden mozzarella sticks, perfectly prepared in the air fryer for a lighter alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. Paired with a zesty, homemade marinara dip, this appetizer brings the classic flavors of an Italian-American bistro right into your kitchen with ease and efficiency.

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The secret to a perfect mozzarella stick is the freezing step, which ensures the cheese stays contained while the breadcrumbs reach golden perfection. This easy method makes it simple to whip up a batch for game nights, parties, or a quick afternoon treat.

Ingredients

• Cheese: 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
• Breading: 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Coating: 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons milk, 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• Marinara Dip: 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes, 1 clove garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1

Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and cut each in half to make 24 shorter pieces (optional for bite-size). Freeze the cheese sticks for at least 1 hour until firm.

Step 2

Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with eggs whisked with milk, and one with combined breadcrumbs, panko, garlic powder, oregano, basil, pepper, and salt.

Step 3

Working quickly, coat each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, then dip in egg mixture, then roll in breadcrumb mixture. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps once more.

Step 4

Place breaded sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze again for 30 minutes to prevent cheese leakage during cooking.

Step 5

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.

Step 6

Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray. Air fry for 6–8 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp. Remove immediately.

Step 7

For the marinara dip: While the sticks cook, heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds), then add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes; season with salt and pepper.

Step 8

Serve mozzarella sticks hot with warm marinara dip.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Always ensure the cheese sticks are fully frozen before breading and again before air frying. This cold core is essential to prevent the cheese from bursting through the breading before it turns golden. Don't skip the second freeze!

Varianten und Anpassungen

Add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mix for a savory boost. For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes in the marinara or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour coating.

Serviervorschläge

These sticks are best served piping hot while the cheese is still stretchy. They pair wonderfully with a light Italian white wine or a chilled sparkling water with a twist of lemon.

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With their irresistible crunch and gooey center, these air fryer mozzarella sticks are sure to be a hit. Serve them up with that warm, fragrant marinara and watch them disappear!

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make the mozzarella sticks extra crispy?

Double-coat the sticks by dipping twice in the egg and breadcrumb mixture before freezing and cooking. This adds extra crunch and helps the coating stay crisp.

→ Why freeze the sticks before air frying?

Freezing firms up the cheese and helps prevent it from melting too quickly and leaking during cooking, ensuring a clean, crispy coating.

→ What herbs add flavor to the breadcrumb coating?

Garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil are mixed into the breadcrumbs to enhance the savory profile of the coating.

→ Can I prepare the marinara dip in advance?

Yes, the marinara dip can be made ahead and gently reheated. Its flavors improve as the ingredients meld during simmering.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftover mozzarella sticks?

Reheat them briefly in the air fryer to restore crispiness without making them soggy, typically for a few minutes at medium-high heat.