Introduction

These air fryer mozzarella sticks are a crispy, gooey snack that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. With a crunchy panko crust and melty cheese inside, they make a delightful appetizer or party treat without the mess of deep frying.

Several golden brown mozzarella sticks with a crispy, textured breaded coating are scattered across crumpled white parchment paper on a white wooden board. One mozzarella stick is broken open, showing gooey melted white cheese stretching out. A small white bowl filled with thick, shiny red marinara sauce sits in the top left corner. The white board is placed on a white marbled surface. Small crumbs and black pepper flakes are sprinkled around the sticks. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

400g block mozzarella cucina
2 tbsp plain flour
1 tsp garlic granules
1 large free-range egg
40g (1½ oz) panko breadcrumbs
Olive oil cooking spray
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the mozzarella into strips about 1.5cm (⅝ inch) wide. Pat them dry gently with kitchen paper to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: In a shallow dish, combine the plain flour and garlic granules. In another dish, beat the egg with a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Spread the panko breadcrumbs in a third dish.
Step 3: Roll each mozzarella strip first in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg wash, then again in flour and egg once more to create a double coating. Make sure each strip is completely coated in flour each time to prevent leaking. Finally, press each piece thoroughly into the panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
Step 4: Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes until solid. This helps them hold together in the air fryer.
Step 5: Lightly spray the bottom of the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange a single layer of mozzarella sticks without overcrowding. Spray the tops with olive oil spray as well. Air fry at 200°C (390°F) for 10 minutes. Repeat with remaining sticks, keeping cooked ones warm, then serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add Italian herbs or chili flakes to the flour mixture.
Use low-moisture mozzarella for less leaking and a firmer texture.
Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dip, or spicy mustard for dipping.
If you don’t have an air fryer, these can also be baked in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through.

Storage

Store any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Several golden brown fried mozzarella sticks with a crunchy texture are scattered on white crumpled parchment paper atop a white wooden board. One mozzarella stick is broken open, showing gooey white melted cheese stretching out. Next to the sticks is a small white bowl filled with thick red ketchup. The food is placed on a white marbled textured surface with a few black pepper flakes around, adding a hint of contrast. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?

Pre-shredded mozzarella tends to release more moisture and may not hold its shape well. It’s best to use a solid block of mozzarella cut into sticks.

What if my mozzarella sticks leak cheese while air frying?

This usually happens if the cheese coating is not sealed properly. Make sure to double coat with flour and egg, and freeze the sticks before cooking to help them hold together better.