Description
Crispy Air-Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Prep Time: 15 min (+ freezing) | Cook Time: 6–8 min | Total Time: ~1 hr 15 min | Servings: 12 sticks
Ingredients
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12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half
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2 large eggs, beaten
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (or Panko + 1 tsp Italian seasoning for extra crunch)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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Cooking spray (avocado or olive oil)
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Marinara sauce or ranch, for dipping
Instructions
1. Freeze Cheese
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Place unwrapped, halved cheese sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Freeze at least 1 hour (or up to overnight).
2. Set Up Breading Station
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Bowl 1: Flour
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Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
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Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs + garlic powder
3. Bread the Cheese
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Dredge frozen sticks in flour → dip in egg → coat with breadcrumbs.
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Optional: Repeat egg + breadcrumb step for extra crunch.
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Return breaded sticks to the freezer for 10–15 min to set.
4. Air Fry
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Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
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Arrange sticks in a single layer, not touching.
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Lightly spray with cooking spray.
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Air fry 6–8 min until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve
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Serve immediately with marinara or ranch.
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Optional garnish: fresh basil or parsley.
Notes
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Spicy Sriracha: Mix 1–2 tbsp Sriracha into the beaten eggs.
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Parmesan-Herb Crust: Add ¼ cup grated Parmesan + 1 tsp dried oregano to breadcrumbs.
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Everything Bagel: Swap breadcrumbs for Everything Bagel seasoning.
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Pepperoni Pizza Sticks: Press tiny pepperoni slices onto frozen cheese before breading.
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Make Ahead: Freeze breaded sticks in a bag for up to 2 months; cook straight from freezer.
Nutrition
- Calories: 90 cal Per Serving
- Sugar: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 5g