Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella Sticks are everyone's favorite appetizer, and this air fryer version is the BEST. Gooey melted mozzarella cheese covered in crispy panko bread crumbs and Italian seasoning, they're everything you'd expect out of fried Mozzarella Sticks... without any oil!

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Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 15

Total Time: 30

Servings:

Calories: 319kcal

Author: Cathy Trochelman

Ingredients

6 mozzarella cheese sticks string cheese
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2-3 eggs beaten
1/4 cup all purpose flour

Instructions

Cut each piece of string cheese in half and set aside.
In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Whisk the eggs in a second bowl and add the flour to a third bowl.
Dip each piece of cheese into the flour, then the egg, then the bread crumb mixture. Be sure it is fully coated each time.
Dip the coated mozzarella stick back into the egg, then into the bread crumb mixture again.
Spray air fryer basket with olive oil using an oil mister (**do NOT use aerosol cooking spray, as it can damage the inside of the basket**).
Place mozzarella sticks in air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd, and air fry at 400° for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Watch carefully to be sure they don't overcook!
Repeat as necessary until all mozzarella sticks are done.

Notes

Recipe variations:

Substitute regular or Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for panko bread crumbs
Leave the mozzarella sticks whole for a larger bite
Add garlic powder, cayenne pepper, cumin, or any of your favorite seasonings in place of Italian seasoning
Substitute cheddar cheese sticks for mozzarella
Dip mozzarella sticks in ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or any of your favorite dipping sauces

Nutrition