Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks: They are Delicious and not Hard at all to Make
If you’re craving a cheesy, crispy snack that doesn’t require a deep fryer, look no further than air fryer mozzarella sticks.
These golden-brown bites of gooey mozzarella, coated in a crunchy, perfectly seasoned breadcrumb crust, are surprisingly easy to make and healthier than traditional fried mozzarella sticks.
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With just a few ingredients and the magic of the air fryer, you can make these delicious treats in no time! Let’s dive into the simple process of making these crispy mozzarella sticks right at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Mozzarella Sticks
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Mozzarella cheese sticks (about 12 oz)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works great for extra crunch)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1/4 cup milk
- Olive oil spray (or cooking spray)
You can also get creative with different types of cheese—try using cheddar or provolone for a different flavor. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat breadcrumbs or even crushed almonds for a gluten-free option!
How to Make It in Air Fryer
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Sticks
Start by cutting your mozzarella cheese into individual sticks. Make sure they are thick enough to hold their shape during the cooking process—about 3 to 4 inches long works well. Place them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
This helps prevent the cheese from melting out too much during frying.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
You’ll need three bowls to bread your mozzarella sticks. Here’s how to set it up:
- Bowl 1: Combine the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Whisk together the beaten eggs and milk.
- Bowl 3: Mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. This mixture will give your mozzarella sticks that irresistible, savory flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Cheese Sticks
Take each frozen mozzarella stick and first dip it in the flour mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, followed by the breadcrumb mixture.
For an extra crispy coating, repeat the process once more, dipping the cheese sticks back into the egg and then the breadcrumbs. This double coating ensures a thick, crunchy crust.
Step 4: Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer, leaving space between each stick to allow for even air circulation.
Air fry the mozzarella sticks for 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep a close eye on them as cooking times can vary depending on the thickness of your mozzarella sticks and the model of your air fryer.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once your mozzarella sticks are golden brown and crispy on the outside, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve with a side of marinara sauce, pesto, or even a spicy honey mustard dip for a delicious snack or appetizer!
Tips for Perfect Recipe Every Time
- Freeze the cheese sticks before coating them. This is crucial to ensure the cheese doesn’t melt out during cooking.
- Double coat your mozzarella sticks for an extra crispy crust.
- Adjust the cook time based on the size of your mozzarella sticks and the type of air fryer you use. Smaller sticks may only need 5-6 minutes, while thicker ones might take a bit longer.
- Spray lightly with olive oil for a golden, crisp exterior without the excess fat of deep frying.
Healthier Variations
If you’re looking to make this recipe a little healthier without compromising flavor, here are a few tips:
- Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
- Baked mozzarella sticks: You can also bake these in the oven at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes for an even healthier option.
- Lower the fat: Try using a reduced-fat cheese or even vegan mozzarella to cut back on the calories and make this dish suitable for different dietary needs.
- Add vegetables: Sneak in some finely chopped spinach or zucchini into the breadcrumb mixture for added nutrients. The veggies won’t affect the flavor much but will boost the health value of the snack.
Storage Tips
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of these crispy, cheesy mozzarella sticks, don’t worry! They can be stored and reheated for future enjoyment without losing their deliciousness. Here’s how to store and reheat them properly:
After making your air fryer mozzarella sticks, allow them to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which could make the sticks soggy.
Refrigerating: Store the mozzarella sticks in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the container is completely sealed to keep the sticks fresh and prevent them from absorbing any odors from other foods in the fridge.
Freezing: If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Freezing them individually first helps prevent them from sticking together.
And Reheating
To bring back the crispy crunch of your mozzarella sticks when reheating, it’s best to use an air fryer, which will restore their texture without making them greasy.
In the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the basket and heat for about 3-4 minutes or until they’re heated through and crispy again. If you’re reheating frozen mozzarella sticks, increase the time to 6-7 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even heating.
In the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Heat for 8-10 minutes, flipping once halfway through. The oven works well for larger batches, though it may not get them quite as crispy as the air fryer.
A Cheesy, Crunchy Snack with Less Guilt
Air fryer mozzarella sticks are a fun, easy, and healthier alternative to deep-fried cheese snacks. With the right tips and tricks, you can enjoy this delicious snack without the mess or extra calories.
Whether you’re preparing them for a quick weeknight dinner or a party snack, these crispy, cheesy bites are sure to be a hit!
Enjoy Watching This Video with a Similar Recipe
Source: Kelly's Cookin'
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