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The Best Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks: An Irresistible Snack

Nothing quite compares to the joy of biting into a perfectly gooey, cheesy mozzarella stick. Traditionally deep-fried, these cheesy delights can often feel a bit heavy and indulgent. However, with the rise of air fryers, there’s a healthier, more straightforward way to enjoy this favourite snack without sacrificing flavour. In this article, we’ll explore how to make the best air fryer mozzarella sticks that are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and utterly irresistible.

Why Choose Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks?

Air frying is an innovative cooking technique that circulates hot air around food to create a crispy exterior. The result? Delicious snacks with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. By using an air fryer, you can indulge in those cheesy sticks without the guilt associated with deep-frying. Cooking mozzarella sticks in an air fryer means you can enjoy a crunchy, cheesy treat with fewer calories and less mess.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the best air fryer mozzarella sticks, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Mozzarella cheese sticks: Look for high-quality, stringy mozzarella sticks for the best melting results.
• Flour: A light dusting of all-purpose flour helps the coating stick to the cheese.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs provide a wet layer for the breadcrumbs to adhere to.
• Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs or panko for an extra crunch.
• Italian seasoning (optional): Adds a delightful flavour boost.
• Cooking spray: For that perfect golden finish.

Optional Dipping Sauce

• Marinara sauce: A classic pairing with mozzarella sticks.
• Ranch dressing: For a creamy, tangy dip that complements the cheesiness.

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Cheese

Begin by unwrapping your mozzarella cheese sticks. If they’re quite large, consider cutting them in half to create more bite-sized portions.

2. Setup Your Breading Station

Create a three-bowl breading station:

• Bowl 1: Add a layer of flour.
• Bowl 2: Crack and whisk the eggs in this bowl.
• Bowl 3: Combine the breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning for an added flavour boost.

3. Bread the Mozzarella Sticks

Coat each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it in the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully covered, and finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. For a thicker coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.

4. Chill

To help the breading adhere and to achieve a perfectly melty centre, place the breaded sticks on a tray and chill them in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for preventing the cheese from oozing out during cooking.

5. Preheat the Air Fryer

While the sticks are chilling, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (around 392°F) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the mozzarella sticks start cooking immediately, helping to create that desired crispy texture.

6. Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the chilled mozzarella sticks in a single layer, making sure there’s space between each stick. This allows the hot air to circulate properly, ensuring even cooking. Spray the tops of the sticks lightly with cooking spray.

Air fry the mozzarella sticks for 6–8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, as cook times may vary depending on the air fryer model.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a minute before serving. They are best enjoyed piping hot, paired with your choice of dipping sauce, be it a rich marinara or a zesty ranch.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer mozzarella sticks are a delectable, easy-to-make snack that will satisfy any cheesy craving. With their crunchy exterior and gooey interior, these air-fried delights are perfect for parties, movie nights, or simply as a treat for yourself.

So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, give these air fryer mozzarella sticks a try. We guarantee they’ll become a household favourite in no time!

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