Name: Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 1 h 18 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, halved; ½ cup flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 cup breadcrumbs (or panko); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon salt; Cooking spray; Marinara sauce for dipping

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 78 reviews

If you have a weakness for crispy, gooey snacks, you are about to fall in love with this Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe. Imagine perfectly golden, crunchy exteriors giving way to luxurious, melting cheese inside—all made effortlessly in your air fryer. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a homemade treat that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to whip up anytime cravings strike. Trust me, once you try these mozzarella sticks, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for frozen versions!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top-down view of a white marbled surface with three white bowls at the top, each holding different ingredients. The left bowl contains a crumb mix with green herbs visible, the middle bowl has beaten yellow eggs, and the right bowl holds a light beige flour. Below these bowls is a wooden cutting board placed horizontally, holding several light yellow cheese sticks, some whole and some split into two pieces. To the right of the cutting board, a teal towel with white stripes is partially visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All the magic happens with just a handful of ingredients that work together to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each component has a role to play, from the crisp coating to the melty, cheesy center.

Mozzarella string cheese sticks: The star of the show, providing that irresistible gooey cheese center—halved for perfect bite-sized portions.
Eggs: Beaten to help the coating stick firmly to the cheese, ensuring every bite has a crispy crust.
Breadcrumbs (or panko): Adds that golden crunch that makes mozzarella sticks so addictive—panko creates an extra light, crispy texture.
Flour: Helps to set the base layer for the coating, keeping the cheese contained during cooking.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the breadcrumbs with savory, aromatic flavors.
Garlic powder: Gives a subtle depth and warmth to the crisp coating.
Salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors for just the right seasoning.
Cooking spray: Ensures an evenly crisp, golden finish without excess oil.
Marinara sauce: The ideal tangy, savory dip to complement and elevate your mozzarella sticks.

How to Make Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Step 1: Freeze the Cheese Sticks

Begin by halving your mozzarella string cheese sticks, then place them in the freezer for at least one hour. This step is absolutely crucial because freezing prevents the cheese from melting too quickly during air frying, helping you achieve that perfect melty but contained center without a cheesy mess.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating Stations

Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the third with breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. This assembly line will make the breading process quick and efficient, ensuring each stick is evenly coated.

Step 3: Coat the Cheese Sticks

Take each frozen cheese stick and dip it first in flour, shaking off any excess. Then submerge it in the beaten eggs, followed by a thorough roll in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. For a seriously crispy texture that holds up well in the air fryer, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps once more—double coating is key to preventing cheese blowouts.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Place your coated mozzarella sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch for even cooking. Lightly spray them with cooking spray to help develop that beautiful golden crust. Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 6 to 8 minutes, keeping an eye on them—they are done when they turn a gorgeous golden brown and the cheese inside becomes wonderfully gooey.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

The last step is the best part: dipping these hot, crispy mozzarella sticks into your favorite marinara sauce and enjoying every melty, crunchy bite!

How to Serve Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

On a white plate with a beaded edge, six golden-brown mozzarella sticks arranged loosely around a small white cup filled with thick, red marinara sauce in the center; one mozzarella stick is broken open at the left side, showing soft, melted white cheese stretching out slightly, while the other sticks have a crispy, textured coating with small green herb specks. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes add a pop of color and a subtle hint of freshness or spice. Grated Parmesan cheese on top can elevate the flavor even more, making your appetizer look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Pairing these mozzarella sticks with a fresh green salad or a crunchy coleslaw balances out the richness. For a heartier option, serve alongside crispy roasted potatoes or even a bowl of warm tomato soup—the perfect cozy combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your mozzarella sticks standing upright in a tall glass or laid neatly on a wooden board surrounded by ramekins of various dips like ranch, spicy marinara, or pesto mayo for a fun and interactive snack display. Adding colorful vegetable sticks or olives can create a vibrant appetizer platter that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (though they rarely last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep their crispiness, avoid covering them tightly while still warm, as trapped steam can soften the crust.

Freezing

You can freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks before cooking by placing them on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy this Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe anytime—just add a few extra minutes to the air fry cooking time when ready to make.

Reheating

For reheating, air fryer is your best friend again! Set it to 360°F (180°C) and heat leftover sticks for 3-4 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that iconic crunch and gooey cheese texture.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses for this recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella string cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheese sticks like cheddar or pepper jack for a bolder flavor, just be mindful of melting properties and adjust freezing time accordingly.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake these mozzarella sticks in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes or fry them in oil for a more classic version, but the air fryer gives that perfect crispy texture with less oil.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Freezing the sticks and double coating with egg and breadcrumbs is the best way to keep the cheese inside. Make sure to handle them gently during the breading process and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal to keep the recipe safe for gluten sensitivities without sacrificing crunch and taste.

Is this recipe good for kids?

Definitely! These mozzarella sticks are a kid-friendly favorite, especially because they are less greasy and perfectly crispy when air fried. Pair with some mild marinara or ranch dip for extra kid appeal.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe is a total game changer when you want a snack that’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious. Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, they bring that classic comfort food feeling straight to your kitchen in minutes. I can’t wait for you to give them a try and make them your new go-to appetizer or game day treat!