
Crispy air fryer mozzarella sticks with golden breadcrumbs, gooey melted cheese, and a simple freeze-first trick for a quick homemade snack.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Freeze Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
Total Time: 56–58 minutes
8 mozzarella string cheese sticks
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Olive oil spray
Marinara sauce, for serving
1. Add flour to one bowl, beaten eggs to a second bowl, and breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning to a third bowl.
2. Coat each mozzarella stick in flour, dip in egg, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture.
3. For extra crunch, dip in egg and breadcrumbs one more time.
4. Freeze the coated mozzarella sticks for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F and spray the sticks lightly with oil.
6. Air fry in a single layer for 6–8 minutes, until golden and crisp.
7. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce.
Do not skip freezing — this helps prevent the cheese from leaking.
Check early at 6 minutes because mozzarella can melt fast.
Cook in batches so the coating gets crisp.
Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs.
Ranch: Add dry ranch seasoning to the breadcrumb mix.
Garlic Parmesan: Add extra Parmesan and garlic powder.
Calories: 290
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 19 g
Protein: 17 g
Sodium: 690 mg
Note: Nutrition is estimated per serving and may vary by brand and dipping sauce.
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