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Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks: Perfect for Snacks and Parties

If you're looking for a quick and delicious snack, these Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect solution. They are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making them utterly irresistible. Whether you're hosting a game night or just craving something cheesy, this recipe is sure to please.

Making mozzarella sticks at home is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and your air fryer, you can whip up this tasty treat in no time. Plus, the air fryer gives them a light and crispy texture without the guilt of deep frying. So, gather your ingredients and get ready for a cheesy delight that everyone will love!

What Makes This Recipe So Good?

  • Crispy Texture: The air fryer creates a perfectly crispy outer layer without the need for deep frying, making them lighter and healthier.
  • Gooey Cheese: Each bite delivers a delightful stretch of melted mozzarella cheese, satisfying your cheesy cravings.
  • Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip these up in just a few minutes, making them a perfect snack or appetizer.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, like marinara or ranch, for a customizable snack experience.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these cheesy treats, making them a hit at family gatherings or parties.
  • Healthier Alternative: Using an air fryer means less oil, so you can enjoy a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing flavor.
  • Homemade Goodness: Making them from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and flavors, ensuring a fresh and delicious outcome.

Key Ingredients

  • Mozzarella Cheese Sticks - The star of the dish, these provide the gooey, cheesy filling that makes mozzarella sticks irresistible.
  • Eggs - Used as a binding agent, eggs help the breadcrumbs adhere to the cheese sticks, ensuring a crispy coating.
  • Breadcrumbs - This forms the crunchy exterior. You can use regular or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  • All-Purpose Flour - Helps create a barrier that prevents the cheese from oozing out during cooking. It also aids in the adhesion of the egg and breadcrumbs.
  • Garlic Powder - Adds flavor to the coating, enhancing the overall taste of the mozzarella sticks.
  • Italian Seasoning - Infuses a blend of herbs that complement the cheese, giving the sticks an authentic Italian flavor profile.
  • Salt and Pepper - Basic seasonings that enhance the overall taste and balance the flavors of the ingredients.

Chefs Helpful Tips

  • Freeze the Cheese Sticks: For the best results, freeze the mozzarella sticks for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them maintain their shape and prevents excessive melting during the air frying process.
  • Use Panko Breadcrumbs: If you want an extra crispy texture, opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They create a crunchier coating.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Give the mozzarella sticks enough space in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Spray with Cooking Oil: Lightly spray the coated mozzarella sticks with cooking oil before air frying. This enhances browning and crispiness.
  • Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary based on your air fryer model. Keep an eye on the mozzarella sticks to avoid overcooking; they should be golden brown and bubbly.
  • Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the flavor by adding spices to the breadcrumb mixture, such as cayenne pepper for heat or Parmesan cheese for added richness.
  • Serve Immediately: These mozzarella sticks are best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer while they’re still warm and gooey. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for an added kick.
  • Keep Leftovers in Mind: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture.

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Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 6 mins
Rest Time 2 mins
Total Time 23 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine: ,
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 390  F
Servings: 4
Calories: 220
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Dietary: Gluten Free, High Protein, Pescatarian, Vegetarian
Description

If you're looking for a quick and delicious snack, these Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect solution. They are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making them utterly irresistible. Whether you're hosting a game night or just craving something cheesy, this recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients
  • 12 sticks Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • Cooking Spray (as needed)
Instructions
  1. 1
    Prepare the Cheese

    Start by freezing the mozzarella sticks for at least 30 minutes. This will help them hold their shape during cooking.

  2. 2
    Set Up Breading Station

    In three separate shallow bowls, set up your breading station:

    • In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour.
    • In the second bowl, beat the eggs.
    • In the third bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  3. 3
    Coat the Cheese Sticks
    • Remove the mozzarella sticks from the freezer.
    • First, dip each stick into the flour, ensuring it's fully coated.
    • Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
    • Finally, roll the stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs.
  4. 4
    Preheat the Air Fryer

    Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

  5. 5
    Arrange in the Air Fryer

    Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.

  6. 6
    Air Fry

    Cook the mozzarella sticks for 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

  7. 7
    Cool Slightly

    Once cooked, remove the sticks from the air fryer and let them rest for about 2 minutes. This will help the cheese set slightly and prevent it from oozing out.

  8. 8
    Serve

    Enjoy the mozzarella sticks warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 220kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 10g16%
Saturated Fat 4g20%
Cholesterol 150mg50%
Sodium 450mg19%
Potassium 180mg6%
Total Carbohydrate 24g8%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 1g
Protein 12g24%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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Read it online: https://mykitchentreats.com/recipe/air-fryer-mozzarella-sticks-perfect-for-snacks-and-parties/
Courtney