Fail Proof Air Fryer Sticks

These fail proof air fryer mozzarella sticks are the ultimate cheesy and crispy snack that never disappoints. Perfect for game day or any craving for a warm, gooey treat, they offer all the flavor without the heaviness of deep frying. This lighter version makes indulging in mozzarella sticks more approachable while still delivering that irresistible crunch and melty cheese inside.

I first made these during a casual weekend gathering and was amazed how crunchy they turned out without frying. Now they are a staple whenever friends come over to watch games or just hang out.

Ingredients

• Mozzarella sticks: The star of the show look for good quality cheese sticks or slice a mozzarella block into thick sticks for the freshest flavor
• Allpurpose flour: Helps seal the cheese and creates a base for the egg wash to cling to
• Eggs: Acts as a binder for the breadcrumb coating, ensuring it sticks well
• Bread crumbs: I prefer regular bread crumbs, but panko works for an even crunchier exterior
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory dimension to the coating, boosting flavor beyond just breadcrumbs
• Garlic powder: Infuses a subtle aromatic layer to the crust that pairs wonderfully with cheese

Instructions

Sift and prepare coverings:

Place the flour in a shallow bowl to make coating easy. In a separate bowl, stir together bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, and garlic powder to blend flavor evenly. Beat the eggs in a third bowl to create a smooth binding wash.

First coating dip:

Dredge each mozzarella stick in the flour, pressing lightly to coat every surface for better adhesion. Next, dip the floured stick into the beaten eggs ensuring full coverage. Finally, roll the stick thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to secure a thick crust.

Freeze the coated sticks:

Arrange the coated sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place this sheet in the freezer for 10 minutes to solidify the coating; this step is crucial to help the cheese stay intact during cooking.

Double coat for stability:

Remove the sticks from the freezer and repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb dipping. This second layer ensures a sturdy, crunchy crust that keeps the cheese from leaking. Freeze again on the parchment lined sheet for another 15 minutes or until fully hardened.

Preheat air fryer and cook:

Preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit five minutes before cooking. Place the frozen mozzarella sticks in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, leaving spaces between sticks for even air circulation. If necessary, cook in batches depending on your air fryers size. Lightly spray the sticks with cooking spray to promote crispiness and air fry for six minutes.

Serve hot with garnish:

Remove the mozzarella sticks carefully and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with a side of marinara sauce or your favorite dipping option.

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This recipe has won me over because mozzarella sticks are a comfort food of mine, but I often avoided making them at home because of messy frying. Freezing the sticks after coating was a game changer for me it keeps the cheese intact and ensures a crispy crust every time. Serving these at my familys weekend get togethers always gets compliments and quickly disappears off the plate.

Storage Tips

You can freeze uncooked mozzarella sticks after coating and freeze them in an airtight container. When ready, cook them straight from frozen in the air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes until golden and melted. Cooked sticks keep well in the fridge for up to two days to reheat, use the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes or microwave briefly for a softer option. Avoid storing cooked sticks in plastic bags without ventilation as this causes sogginess.

Ingredient Substitutions

Mozzarella block sliced into sticks works just as well as store bought sticks and can sometimes provide a richer cheese taste. Glutenfree flour and breadcrumbs can substitute all purpose flour and regular bread crumbs to cater to dietary needs. Add Italian seasoning or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix for a flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions

Classic marinara dip is a must but also try ranch dressing or a spicy sriracha mayo for something different. Pair the sticks with fresh veggie sticks or a crisp salad to balance the richness of the cheese. For a fun party platter, add some sliced cured meats and olives alongside these cheesy bites.

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Enjoy these crispy gooey mozzarella sticks straight from the air fryer for a crowd pleasing snack. They freeze well and reheat beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ How do I prevent cheese from oozing out during cooking?

Dip the sticks in the bread crumb mixture twice and freeze them thoroughly before air frying. This helps keep the cheese intact while cooking.

→ Can I use a mozzarella block instead of pre-cut sticks?

Yes, simply cut the block into stick shapes and follow the same coating and freezing steps for the best results.

→ What temperature should the air fryer be set to?

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (about 200°C) and cook the sticks for approximately 6 minutes for a crispy outside and melted inside.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these sticks?

Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but ranch dressing or a fresh herb dip also complement the cheesy flavor nicely.

→ How can I store leftover mozzarella sticks?

Store uncooked sticks in an airtight container in the freezer, or keep cooked sticks refrigerated and reheat in the air fryer or microwave.

→ Are these sticks kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Their crunchy coating and cheesy center make them a favorite among kids for any occasion.