Ingredients
Scale
- 12 low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Olive oil spray or non-stick cooking spray
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Start by unwrapping your mozzarella sticks. If they feel too long, you can cut them in half for bite-sized snacks. Set up three shallow bowls for your breading station. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second, whisk the eggs. In the third, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Coat each cheese stick in flour, then dip into the egg, and finally roll in the breadcrumb mixture. For the ultimate crispy seal, dip the breaded stick back into the egg and then into the breadcrumbs a second time. Place the sticks on a tray and freeze them for at least 2 hours. This step is non-negotiable; it prevents the cheese from melting before the crust gets crispy.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange the frozen mozzarella sticks in a single layer, making sure they do not touch each other to allow for proper airflow. Lightly spray the tops of the sticks with more oil spray to help them brown. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes. Halfway through, gently flip the sticks or shake the basket. Keep a close eye on them during the last two minutes—once you see a tiny bit of cheese starting to peek through the crust, they are perfectly done.
- Remove the mozzarella sticks carefully from the air fryer using tongs. Let them rest for 1 to 2 minutes; this allows the cheese to set slightly so it doesn’t all run out on the first bite. Arrange them on a platter and serve immediately while hot and stretchy. Pair them with a bowl of warm marinara sauce or a side of creamy ranch dressing for the perfect dipping experience.
- Cook Time: 2 hours 21 minutes