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Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe – Easy Garlic Parmesan Crust

air fryer mozzarella sticks - featured image

Crispy, golden air fryer mozzarella sticks with a garlicky parmesan crust—lighter than fried, but just as gooey and satisfying. Perfect for parties, snacks, or anytime you crave cheesy comfort food without the mess of deep frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks (about 12 oz), cut in half
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray or olive oil mister
  • Optional: Marinara sauce, for serving
  • Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Unwrap 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks and cut each in half to make 24 pieces.
  2. Set up three shallow bowls: Bowl 1 with flour, Bowl 2 with beaten eggs, Bowl 3 with breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper mixed together.
  3. Roll each cheese stick in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture. For best results, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
  4. Place coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30–45 minutes.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 390°F for 3–5 minutes.
  6. Lightly spray air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange frozen sticks in a single layer, mist tops with spray.
  7. Air fry for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and just starting to ooze at the ends.
  8. Remove with tongs, let cool for 1–2 minutes, and serve immediately with warm marinara and fresh parsley.

Notes

Double-coating and freezing are key for a crispy crust and preventing cheese leaks. Work in batches for best results. For gluten-free, use GF flour and breadcrumbs. Serve hot for maximum stretch and crunch. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer.

Nutrition

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