Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks (Printable View)

Crispy, melty mozzarella sticks made easily in the air fryer for a perfect golden snack or appetizer.

# Ingredient List:

→ Cheese

01 - 8 mozzarella cheese sticks, chilled and unwrapped

→ Breading Station

02 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs, beaten
04 - 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Seasonings

06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
08 - 1 teaspoon paprika, optional
09 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Cooking Spray

10 - Non-stick cooking spray

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Arrange mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until completely solid, at least 1 hour.
02 - Set up three shallow bowls: place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and combine Panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper in the third.
03 - Roll each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off any excess, dip in beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly in the Panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure even coverage. Transfer coated sticks to the baking sheet.
04 - Place all coated mozzarella sticks back in the freezer for a minimum of 10 minutes, up to 30 minutes, to help the breading set.
05 - Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
06 - Spray the air fryer basket lightly with non-stick cooking spray. Arrange mozzarella sticks in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Apply a light coating of cooking spray to the tops.
07 - Cook at 400°F for 6–8 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.
08 - Serve hot immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.

# Supplementary Details:

01 - Refreezing before air frying ensures the cheese remains intact during cooking and prevents excessive melting.