Ingredients
For the Mozzarella Sticks
- 16 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
Optional
- Cooking spray or a small amount of oil for spraying
- Marinara sauce for serving
Equipment Needed
- Three shallow bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Air fryer
- Tongs
Step 1: Prepare and Freeze the Cheese
Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place them in the freezer for at least 1 hour, or until fully firm. Freezing is essential because it slows down the melting process and helps keep the cheese from bursting out of the coating during air frying.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Place the flour in the first shallow bowl.
In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
In the third bowl, combine the Italian breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and basil. Mix thoroughly so the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Bread the Mozzarella Sticks
Remove the frozen mozzarella sticks from the freezer.
Coat each stick lightly in flour, ensuring all sides are covered. Shake off any excess.
Dip the floured stick into the egg mixture, letting excess liquid drip off.
Roll the stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere well.
For best results, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps to create a double coating. This added layer significantly reduces cheese leakage.
Place the breaded sticks onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Freeze Again
Return the breaded mozzarella sticks to the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This step sets the coating and ensures the cheese stays inside while cooking. You may freeze them for up to 24 hours before air frying if preparing ahead.
Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve an evenly crisp exterior.
Step 6: 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, leaving space between each one. Do not overcrowd.
Lightly spray the tops of the sticks with cooking spray.
Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, turning halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and crisp. Watch closely during the final minutes to prevent cheese from leaking.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer and let them rest for 1 to 2 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly and improves texture.
Serve hot with warm marinara sauce or your preferred dipping sauce.
Tips for Best Results
- Always freeze both the cheese and the breaded sticks before air frying.
- Double breading is strongly recommended for structure and crunch.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- If cheese starts to leak, remove the stick immediately to prevent burning.
