Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Golden, crunchy, and filled with gooey melted cheese, air fryer mozzarella sticks are the ultimate snack or appetizer. This homemade version gives you all the crispiness of deep-fried mozzarella sticks without the excess oil. Each bite delivers a perfect combination of seasoned breading and warm, stretchy cheese, making them irresistible.

Whether you’re serving them at a party, as a fun appetizer, or just craving a cheesy treat, these air fryer mozzarella sticks are a game-changer. Pair them with marinara sauce for a classic combination, or try ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha for a twist. Plus, making them in the air fryer means they cook quickly and with less mess, so you can enjoy crispy mozzarella sticks anytime.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray or oil mist

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese

Cut each mozzarella stick in half to create 24 smaller 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 while cooking.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In three separate shallow bowls, prepare the breading ingredients:

Flour Bowl – Add the all-purpose flour.
Egg Wash Bowl – Whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
Breadcrumb Mixture – Mix Italian-style breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Mozzarella Sticks

Take a frozen mozzarella stick and follow this coating process:

Dredge it in the flour, shaking off excess.
Dip it into the egg wash, ensuring full coverage.
Coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently for an even layer.
Repeat by dipping it back into the egg wash and then into the breadcrumbs again for a double coating.

Place the coated sticks back onto the lined baking sheet and freeze for another 30 minutes to help the breading adhere.

Step 4: Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer, leaving space between them.
Lightly spray the tops of the sticks with cooking spray.
Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Keep an eye on them to prevent the cheese from oozing out too soon.

Storage Instructions

To store leftover mozzarella sticks, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes until crispy and heated through. If frozen, add 1-2 extra minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (about 3 mozzarella sticks):

Calories: 220
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 400mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can fully coat the mozzarella sticks and freeze them until ready to cook. Just pop them straight into the air fryer from frozen.

Why did my cheese leak out?

If your mozzarella sticks are melting too fast, they may not have been frozen long enough before cooking. Make sure they’re fully frozen before air frying.