Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Crispy on the outside and irresistibly gooey on the inside, these Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks deliver the perfect crunchy, cheesy snack in just minutes. Made healthier with less oil using an air fryer, they’re quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion from parties to spontaneous cravings.

  • Total Time: 46-48 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 mozzarella sticks 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese

  • 6–8 mozzarella sticks (firm, good-quality)

Coating

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour alternative)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup plain or Italian-seasoned bread crumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (dried or fresh parsley/basil optional)

Others

  • Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Prep the Cheese: Cut mozzarella into sticks if not pre-cut, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 30 minutes. Freezing helps the cheese hold its shape during cooking preventing it from melting out of the crust.
  2. Set Up Your Coating Stations: Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour lightly seasoned with salt and pepper, a second with beaten eggs, and a third with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, Italian herbs, and any other preferred spices.
  3. Coat the Mozzarella: Dip each frozen mozzarella stick first into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch and to prevent melting, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more (double dip).
  4. Air Fry the Sticks: Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Place the coated sticks in a single layer without overlapping. Lightly spray the sticks on top with cooking spray. Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through cooking.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Let the mozzarella sticks cool for 1-2 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to settle slightly and avoid burns from the hot melty center. Serve with dips like marinara, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo.

Notes

  • Freeze the mozzarella sticks before coating to prevent cheese leakage.
  • Double dipping in egg and breadcrumbs helps create a thick, secure crust.
  • Use plenty of non-stick spray to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
  • Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  • Check cooking times early since air fryer models vary; avoid overcooking to prevent bursting cheese.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 40 minutes (includes freezing time)
  • Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs used)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 mozzarella sticks
  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: Air Fryer, Mozzarella Sticks, Crispy Cheese Snack, Quick Appetizer, Gluten-Free Snack, Healthy Snack