1. Home
  2. All Recipes
  3. Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Category: Fast and Simple Recipes for Busy Days

These mozzarella sticks feature a crunchy breadcrumb coating with a warm, melted cheese center, achieved by freezing the sticks before breading and double-coating for extra crispiness. Air frying offers a healthier alternative to deep frying, cooking them quickly at 375°F for 6-8 minutes. Perfect served with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce, they make a simple and satisfying appetizer for any occasion.

Save to Pinterest Share Recipe Send This Print Recipe Skip to Recipe
A woman wearing a chef's hat and apron.
Created By Sarah
Last updated on Sat, 21 Jun 2025 17:56:25 GMT
A plate of cheese sticks. Save
A plate of cheese sticks. | sarahmeal.com

These air-fried mozzarella sticks offer a crispy exterior with a delightfully gooey cheese center making them an ideal appetizer for any gathering or casual snack time.

I remember first making these on a weekend when I wanted something quick yet impressive to serve friends and they disappeared in minutes. It has become a go-to recipe whenever I want an easy crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

  • Mozzarella sticks: six string cheese sticks cut in half for the perfect bite-sized portion
  • All-purpose flour: half a cup to create the initial coating that helps the egg adhere better
  • Eggs: two large beaten eggs act as the glue for the breadcrumb crust
  • Italian-style breadcrumbs: one cup adds flavor and texture choose a quality brand with herbs for extra taste
  • Panko breadcrumbs: half a cup provide an extra crunchy coating that crisps beautifully in the air fryer
  • Garlic powder: half a teaspoon gives a subtle aromatic lift
  • Salt: half a teaspoon enhances all the flavors naturally
  • Black pepper: a quarter teaspoon adds just a touch of heat
  • Cooking spray or oil: to lightly coat the sticks ensuring they crisp without sticking

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cut and Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks:
Cut each mozzarella string cheese stick in half then place in the freezer for at least 30 minutes this step is crucial to prevent cheese from melting too quickly during cooking
Set Up Breading Stations:
Prepare three shallow bowls one with flour one with beaten eggs and the last with a mixture of Italian-style and panko breadcrumbs combined with garlic powder salt and pepper for even seasoning
Coat the Sticks Thoroughly:
Take each frozen stick dredge it in flour then dip into eggs followed by the breadcrumb mixture repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more to build a thick crust that crisps nicely
Freeze Again:
Place the coated sticks back into the freezer for another 30 minutes this ensures they hold their shape in the air fryer
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius and allow it to come to temperature
Cook Until Crispy:
Lightly spray the sticks with cooking spray then arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket cook for 6 to 8 minutes flipping halfway until they are golden and crispy
Serve Warm:
Enjoy immediately paired with marinara sauce or any dipping sauce you love for a satisfying appetizer

I especially love how the garlic powder adds a subtle depth of flavor it reminds me of a cozy night when my family gathered around sharing stories over these cheesy bites

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat briefly in the air fryer to restore crispness avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free version substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives Use egg replacer or aquafaba for a vegan-friendly option though the cheese will need a vegan alternative as well Try different seasoning blends like smoked paprika or Italian herbs for a twist on flavor

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a fresh tomato marinara sauce or spicy arrabbiata for dipping Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness These also work great as finger food for parties or game day snacks

Cultural Context

Mozzarella sticks have Italian-American roots combining mozzarella cheese from Italian cuisine with a breaded fried style popular in American appetizers The air fryer modernizes this classic by reducing oil use and mess while keeping the irresistible texture

A plate of cheese sticks with a dollop of cheese on top. Save
A plate of cheese sticks with a dollop of cheese on top. | sarahmeal.com

Pro Tips

A plate of food with a cheese and chicken stuffed breadstick. Save
A plate of food with a cheese and chicken stuffed breadstick. | sarahmeal.com

Common Recipe Questions

→ How can I keep the cheese from leaking?

Freeze the mozzarella sticks before coating and again after breading to help maintain their shape during cooking.

→ Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Baking at 400°F for 10-12 minutes is possible, but air frying creates a crispier crust.

→ What breadcrumb mixture is recommended?

A combination of Italian-style and panko breadcrumbs provides great texture and flavor.

→ Is it possible to prepare these in advance?

Yes, you can bread and freeze the sticks ahead of time, then air fry when ready to serve.

→ Which sauces pair well with these sticks?

Marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli complement the crispy, cheesy sticks nicely.

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Golden and crispy air-fried mozzarella sticks with a gooey center, ideal for easy entertaining.

Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
8 minutes
Total Duration
28 minutes
Created By: Sarah

Recipe Category: Quick & Easy

Level of Difficulty: Simple

Cuisine Style: American

Servings Yield: 6 Portion Size (12 mozzarella halves)

Diet Preferences: Vegetarian-Friendly

What You'll Need

→ Mozzarella

Ingredient 01 6 mozzarella string cheese sticks, halved

→ Breading

Ingredient 02 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Ingredient 03 2 large eggs, beaten
Ingredient 04 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
Ingredient 05 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Ingredient 06 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Ingredient 07 1/2 teaspoon salt
Ingredient 08 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Cooking Spray

Ingredient 09 Cooking spray or oil

How to Make It

Instruction 01

Cut mozzarella sticks in half and freeze for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Instruction 02

Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with mixed Italian-style and panko breadcrumbs combined with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Instruction 03

Dredge each frozen mozzarella stick first in flour, then dip into eggs, and coat thoroughly with breadcrumb mixture. Repeat egg and breadcrumb coating for a thicker crust.

Instruction 04

Place the coated mozzarella sticks back in the freezer for another 30 minutes to prevent melting during cooking.

Instruction 05

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Instruction 06

Lightly spray the sticks with cooking spray and arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Instruction 07

Serve immediately with marinara sauce or your preferred dipping sauce.

Additional Tips

  1. Freezing before and after breading helps the sticks maintain shape and prevents cheese from leaking during cooking.
  2. These are a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions and can be prepared ahead of time.

Essential Tools

  • Air fryer
  • Three mixing bowls
  • Freezer

Allergy Details

Always review ingredient labels for allergens, and consult a professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten.