Ingredients
Scale
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese: Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and cut each in half to create 24 pieces. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 1 hour. Freezing prevents the cheese from melting too quickly during cooking.
- Set Up Dredging Stations: In three separate shallow bowls, prepare the following:
- First bowl: Add the all-purpose flour.
- Second bowl: Beat the eggs until smooth.
- Third bowl: Combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Cheese Sticks: Working with a few pieces at a time, dredge the frozen mozzarella sticks in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip them into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. For an extra crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps to double coat each stick.
- Freeze Again: Place the coated mozzarella sticks back on the baking sheet and freeze for an additional 30 minutes. This ensures the breading stays intact during air frying.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Monitor closely to prevent overcooking.
- Serve Immediately: Carefully remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer and serve hot with marinara sauce or your preferred dipping sauce.
Notes
- Storage: Leftover mozzarella sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare and freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks in advance. Store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the air frying time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus freezing time)
- Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 mozzarella sticks
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg