**Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks: Crispy, Gooey Perfection!**
If you’re a fan of crispy, gooey mozzarella sticks but want a healthier twist on this classic snack, the air fryer is your new best friend. Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks offer all the indulgence of the traditional version with significantly less oil, making them a perfect choice for a delicious appetizer or a satisfying snack. Here’s a guide on how to achieve crispy, gooey perfection every time.
### Ingredients
- **12 mozzarella string cheese sticks**
- **1 cup all-purpose flour**
- **2 large eggs**
- **1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)**
- **1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese**
- **1 teaspoon dried oregano**
- **1 teaspoon garlic powder**
- **1/2 teaspoon onion powder**
- **Salt and black pepper to taste**
- **Cooking spray**
### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks*
- Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and cut them in half if you prefer shorter sticks. Place them on a baking sheet or plate.
2. **Set Up the Breading Station*
- **Flour Mixture* In a shallow bowl, place the flour. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- **Egg Wash* In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
- **Breadcrumb Mixture* In a third shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. **Bread the Mozzarella Sticks*
- Dredge each mozzarella stick in the flour, coating it evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
- Dip the floured stick into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Roll the stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. For extra crunch, you can double bread the sticks by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
4. **Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks*
- Arrange the breaded mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet or plate. Freeze for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the cheese stay intact during frying and prevents it from oozing out.
5. **Cook in the Air Fryer*
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the frozen mozzarella sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Shake the basket halfway through cooking for even crisping.
6. **Serve*
- Carefully remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
### Tips for Perfect Mozzarella Sticks
- **Keep the Cheese Cold* Freezing the breaded mozzarella sticks is key to preventing the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking out during frying.
- **Don't Overcrowd the Air Fryer* Cook the sticks in batches if necessary to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy all over.
- **Adjust for Crispiness* If you like your mozzarella sticks extra crispy, you can cook them for an additional minute or two, keeping an eye to avoid burning.
### Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
- **Healthier Option* Air frying uses significantly less oil than traditional deep frying, making these mozzarella sticks a better choice for a healthier lifestyle.
- **Quick and Easy* With minimal prep and cook time, these sticks are perfect for a quick snack or last-minute party appetizer.
- **Customizable* You can experiment with different seasonings and dipping sauces to tailor the recipe to your taste preferences.
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks deliver all the crispy, gooey goodness of the classic version with a fraction of the fat. They’re perfect for satisfying your cheesy cravings without the guilt. Enjoy these delicious sticks with friends and family for a fun and tasty treat that’s sure to be a hit!
**Happy cooking and snacking!**
