Name: Glorious Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks: 6 Minute Magic Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 1 h 16 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz mozzarella string cheese, cut into halves; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; Cooking spray

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Introduction

These glorious air fryer mozzarella sticks offer a crispy, golden exterior with warm, gooey cheese inside—all ready in just 6 minutes. Perfect as a quick snack or appetizer, they deliver satisfying crunch without the deep-frying mess.

A stack of nine golden-brown mozzarella sticks sits on a white plate with a white marbled surface in the background. Each stick has a crispy, coarse breaded layer that is deep-fried to a crunchy texture with small green seasoning flecks scattered on top. One mozzarella stick at the center is slightly pulled apart, revealing a smooth, melted white cheese layer inside. The sticks are arranged in a loose pile, showing their cylindrical shape and rough, grainy coating. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz mozzarella string cheese, cut into halves
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray

Instructions

Step 1: Place the mozzarella stick halves in the freezer for at least 1 hour. This helps them hold their shape during cooking.
Step 2: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, place the flour. In the second, add the beaten eggs. In the third, combine the panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Working with one mozzarella stick at a time, coat it evenly in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally press it into the panko mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
Step 4: Place the coated mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a plate or baking sheet.
Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
Step 6: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Step 7: Arrange the mozzarella sticks in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. You may need to cook in batches.
Step 8: Air fry for 6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 9: Serve immediately with your favorite marinara sauce.

Tips & Variations

Freeze the mozzarella sticks long enough—it prevents cheese from oozing out during cooking.
For extra flavor, add Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the panko mixture.
Try different dipping sauces like ranch, spicy ketchup, or pesto for a twist.
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work but may be less crispy.

Storage

Store leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

A stack of golden-brown fried mozzarella sticks is neatly piled on a white plate, each stick coated in a crunchy, textured breadcrumb crust. The top mozzarella stick is broken in half, showing melted, stretchy white cheese inside. The crispy outer layer has small bits of seasoning and a few salt crystals sparkling on the surface. The plate is placed on a white marbled texture, giving a clean and bright background to the tasty snack. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of string cheese?

Shredded mozzarella will melt too quickly and won’t hold the shape well, so string cheese is best for this recipe.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake these in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.