Ingredients and preparation
To create delicious Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Cooking spray
Begin by preparing your ingredients. First, cut each mozzarella stick in half to create 24 shorter sticks. This size is perfect for even cooking in the air fryer.
Next, set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. In the third bowl, mix the Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil.
To bread the mozzarella sticks, start by rolling each stick in the flour, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour. Then, dip the floured stick into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well. For an extra crispy coating, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
Once all the mozzarella sticks are breaded, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the sticks for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the cheese maintain its shape during cooking and prevents it from melting too quickly.
Cooking instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While the air fryer is preheating, take the frozen mozzarella sticks out of the freezer. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.
Lightly spray the tops of the mozzarella sticks with cooking spray. This will help them achieve a golden, crispy exterior. Cook the mozzarella sticks at 390°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they do not overcook or burst open.
Carefully remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer using tongs and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Allow them to cool for a minute or two before serving, as the cheese inside will be very hot.
Serving suggestions and tips
For a delightful presentation, serve the mozzarella sticks on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces. Classic marinara sauce is always a favorite, but you can also offer ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a bit of a kick. Arrange the sauces in small bowls around the platter for easy access.
To add a touch of freshness and color, garnish the platter with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the flavors of the mozzarella sticks.
If you’re serving these mozzarella sticks at a party or gathering, consider pairing them with other finger foods like chicken wings, vegetable sticks, or mini sliders. This creates a well-rounded appetizer spread that will satisfy a variety of tastes.
For an extra crispy texture, you can double-coat the mozzarella sticks by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps before freezing them. This additional layer of breading will give them an even crunchier exterior.
To ensure the mozzarella sticks stay warm and crispy if you’re serving them over an extended period, keep them in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C) until ready to serve. This will help maintain their texture without overcooking them.
Lastly, if you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the breading soggy.