🧀 Best Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks (Crispy Outside, Gooey Inside!)

Looking for the ultimate crunchy, cheesy snack that doesn’t involve deep frying? These Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are your perfect solution! They’re golden and crispy on the outside, with perfectly melted mozzarella on the inside — all made without the mess and excess oil of deep frying.

Whether you're prepping for a game night, movie snack, or party platter, these are freezer-friendly and totally crowd-pleasing. Made with pantry staples and minimal oil, this recipe is a healthier spin on a classic favorite.

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🛒 Ingredients (Makes 12 sticks – Serves 4)

For the Mozzarella Sticks:

• 6 mozzarella cheese sticks, cut in half
  
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  
• 2 eggs, beaten
  
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
  
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  
• Salt & pepper to taste
  
• Olive oil spray (for air fryer)
  

Optional Dipping Sauce:

• Marinara or pizza sauce
  
• Ranch dressing
  

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep the Cheese

Cut the mozzarella sticks in half for 12 even pieces. Freeze them for at least 1 hour until solid — this prevents melting too fast in the air fryer.

2. Prepare Breading Stations

Set up 3 shallow bowls:

1. Flour
   
2. Beaten eggs
   
3. Breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt & pepper
   

3. Bread the Cheese Sticks

Remove cheese from freezer. Coat each piece in flour → egg → breadcrumb mix.
Double coat: Dip again in egg and breadcrumbs for a thicker crust.
Place back into freezer for 20 minutes for best results.

4. Air Fry

Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray basket with oil.
Place cheese sticks in a single layer. Lightly spray tops.
Air fry for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

5. Serve

Let cool for 2 minutes. Serve hot with marinara or dipping sauce!

🧊 Storage Notes

• Fridge: Best eaten fresh. Can store in an airtight container for 1 day and reheat in air fryer.
  
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked breaded sticks up to 1 month. Air fry directly from frozen at 400°F for 8–10 minutes.

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