Air Fryer Mozzarella Cheese Sticks Recipe

Crispy, gooey, and irresistibly cheesy, these Air Fryer Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are the ultimate snack for any occasion. Perfectly golden on the outside with a melty center, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to whip up and healthier than traditional fried versions.

Using an air fryer, you’ll cut down on oil while keeping all the flavor. This recipe is simple, beginner-friendly, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings!

Air Fryer Mozzarella Cheese Sticks Recipe – Crispy Cheese Treats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These mozzarella sticks are a game-changer for snack time. The air fryer ensures a crunchy coating without the greasiness of deep frying, making them a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on taste. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a plate of cheesy goodness in under 20 minutes. They’re perfect for game nights, movie marathons, or when you need a quick appetizer to impress guests.

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Ingredients

To make these mozzarella sticks, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each one is linked to an Amazon affiliate link for easy shopping:

Mozzarella cheese sticks – 8 sticks, cut in half to make 16 pieces
All-purpose flour – ½ cup
Eggs – 2 large, beaten
Panko breadcrumbs – 1 cup
Italian seasoning – 1 tsp
Garlic powder – ½ tsp
Salt – ¼ tsp
Black pepper – ¼ tsp
Cooking spray – for misting
Marinara sauce – for dipping (optional)

Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed

Here’s the equipment you’ll need, with Amazon affiliate links for convenience:

Air fryer – A 6-quart model works great for this recipe
Shallow bowls – 3, for breading stations
Tongs – For handling the mozzarella sticks
Baking sheet – To freeze the sticks before air frying
Parchment paper – For lining the baking sheet

Recommended Air Fryer

For the best results, I recommend the COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer – 9-in-1 Versatility, Turbo Speed, 95% Less Oil!. Here’s why it’s perfect for this recipe:

✅ 9 Cooking Functions – Air fry, roast, bake, dry, reheat & more
✅ TurboBlaze Technology – 3600 RPM fan for ultra-fast, even cooking
✅ Precise Temperature Control – 90°–450°F for perfect texture every time
✅ 6-Qt Family Size – Cook larger meals with a space-saving design
✅ Up to 95% Less Oil – Crispy, guilt-free frying without excess fat
✅ Quiet & Efficient – Operates under 53 dB for a peaceful kitchen
✅ Dishwasher-Safe Basket – Hassle-free cleaning for easy meal prep
✅ 100+ In-App Recipes – Get inspired with chef-crafted meals
✅ Customizable Preheat & 4 Turbo Modes – Cook your way with precision

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Air Fryer Mozzarella Cheese Sticks Recipe – Homemade Comfort Food

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks

Start by cutting each mozzarella cheese stick in half to create 16 shorter pieces. This size is perfect for even cooking and easy dipping. Place the halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 30 minutes. Freezing helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly in the air fryer.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Stations

While the cheese sticks are freezing, prepare three shallow bowls for breading:

Bowl 1: Add ½ cup of all-purpose flour.
Bowl 2: Beat 2 large eggs until smooth.
Bowl 3: Mix 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, ½ tsp of garlic powder, ¼ tsp of salt, and ¼ tsp of black pepper.

Step 3: Bread the Mozzarella Sticks

Remove the mozzarella sticks from the freezer. Working with one stick at a time, coat it in the following order:

Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
Dip in the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off.
Roll in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Place the breaded sticks back on the baking sheet. For extra crunch, you can double-bread by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps. Freeze the breaded sticks for another 15 minutes.

Step 4: Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Lightly mist the breaded mozzarella sticks with cooking spray to promote browning. Arrange the sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. Work in batches if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the mozzarella sticks to a plate and serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!

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Tips for Success

Freeze Thoroughly: Don’t skip the freezing steps. It keeps the cheese from oozing out during cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd: Give each stick space in the air fryer for even crisping.
Adjust Cooking Time: Air fryers vary, so check at 6 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Try Variations: Swap Italian seasoning for Cajun spice or add parmesan to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.

Nutritional Facts

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (4 mozzarella sticks):

Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 16g
Fat: 18g (Saturated: 8g)
Carbohydrates: 24g (Sugar: 1g)
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 600mg

These values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes. For a lighter option, consider using low-fat mozzarella cheese sticks. If you’re watching your weight, supplements like Moringa Actives can support metabolism and appetite control, complementing your healthy eating goals.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

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Pairing Suggestions

These mozzarella sticks shine as a standalone snack but pair wonderfully with other dishes:

Serve with a side of garlic bread for a full Italian vibe.
Pair with a crisp Caesar salad for a balanced meal.
Enjoy with a chilled sparkling water or a light beer.

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Why Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Are a Healthier Choice

Traditional mozzarella sticks are deep-fried, soaking up excess oil and calories. The air fryer uses hot air circulation to achieve that crispy texture with up to 95% less oil, as seen with the COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer. This means you can indulge without the guilt. For extra support in managing weight, try Keto Actives, a supplement designed to enhance fat burning, especially for those on a ketogenic diet.

Variations to Try

Switch things up with these fun twists:

Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix.
Herb Lover’s Delight: Mix in dried basil or oregano for a Mediterranean flair.
Cheesy Boost: Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese into the breadcrumbs.

Discover even more creative air fryer ideas in the Air Fryer Cookbook: 600 Quick & Easy Recipes for Beginners and Pros.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use String Cheese Instead?

Yes, string cheese works as a substitute, but it may not melt as evenly as mozzarella cheese sticks.

How Do I Prevent Cheese from Leaking?

Freezing the sticks before and after breading is key. Also, avoid overcooking—check at 6 minutes.

Can I Make These Ahead?

Bread the sticks and freeze them on a baking sheet. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 1 month. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the cooking time.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are a must-try for cheese lovers and air fryer enthusiasts alike. They’re quick, delicious, and a healthier take on a classic snack. With the right tools, like the COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer, and a few simple ingredients, you’ll be savoring crispy, melty perfection in no time.

For more inspiration, dive into the Air Fryer Cookbook: 600 Quick & Easy Recipes for Beginners and Pros. It’s your ticket to mastering air fryer cooking with 600 mouthwatering recipes!

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