Why did my cheese leak out during cooking?

The cheese likely wasn't frozen enough before cooking, or there may have been gaps in the breading. Make sure to double-coat each stick carefully and freeze thoroughly between coatings and before cooking.

Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?

String cheese (mozzarella sticks) works best because it holds its shape well. Other cheeses may melt too quickly and leak out during cooking. If you want to experiment, try halloumi or bread cheese, which have higher melting points.

How do I know when my mozzarella sticks are done?

They're ready when the exterior is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is just beginning to melt. If you notice any cheese starting to ooze out, it's definitely time to remove them!

Can I make these without an air fryer?

Absolutely! You can bake them in a conventional oven at 425°F for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won't be quite as crispy as the air-fried version, but still delicious. Alternatively, you can deep fry them in oil at 350°F for about 1-2 minutes until golden.

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Description

These crispy and gooey Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect indulgent snack or appetizer! They are coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection using an air fryer, making them a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried versions. Served with marinara sauce for dipping, these mozzarella sticks are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Mozzarella Sticks

8 mozzarella cheese sticks, halved
2 to 3 eggs
1/3 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs
1/4 teaspoon dried parsley

Optional for Dipping

1 cup marinara sauce

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Instructions

Prepare the Initial Setup
Line a cookie sheet with wax or parchment paper. Cut each mozzarella stick in half and set aside. This will help you assemble all the ingredients efficiently.
Assemble the Coating Bowls
In the first bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
In the second bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, and salt.
In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and dried parsley.
Coat the Mozzarella Sticks
Take one mozzarella stick and dip it into the egg bowl, ensuring it is fully coated. Let any excess egg drip off. Then, dip the mozzarella stick into the flour mixture, coating it completely. Repeat by dipping it back into the egg mixture, and then into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a thick and even coating.
Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks
Place the coated mozzarella sticks onto the lined cookie sheet. Freeze for 25 minutes. This helps the coating adhere and prevents the cheese from oozing during cooking.
Repeat the Coating Process
Once frozen, repeat the coating process (egg mixture, breadcrumbs) for each stick. Freeze again for at least 25 minutes to ensure the best results.
Prepare the Air Fryer
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray and also spray the frozen mozzarella sticks. Preheat the air fryer to 380℉.
Cook in the Air Fryer
Place the mozzarella sticks in a single layer inside the preheated air fryer basket. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, flipping them after about 4 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking. Remove once the cheese starts to bubble.
Serve and Enjoy
Allow the mozzarella sticks to cool slightly before serving. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy your crispy snack!

Notes

Refer to your air fryer manual for specific temperature and cooking time recommendations for your model. Settings may vary.
Dip and coat each mozzarella stick one at a time for better results, and allow the excess egg to drip off to avoid a lumpy coating.
Freezing mozzarella sticks before cooking is crucial—it creates the perfect texture and prevents the cheese from leaking out during cooking.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 sticks
Calories: 420
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 75mg