Introduction
If you’re a fan of crispy, cheesy snacks, then you’ll love making mozzarella sticks in an air fryer. These delicious treats are quick and easy to prepare, and the air fryer gives them a fantastic crunch without the need for deep frying. In this article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to make mozzarella sticks in an air fryer.
Ingredients
Before you get started, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 mozzarella sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Mozzarella Sticks
Start by placing the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This will help them hold their shape while cooking. Meanwhile, prepare three bowls for the coating process. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Coating the Mozzarella Sticks
Remove the mozzarella sticks from the freezer. Dip each stick into the flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the coated stick into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, coat the stick with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs. Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a plate or baking sheet.
Step 3: Air Frying the Mozzarella Sticks
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t touch each other. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
Cook the mozzarella sticks for 6 to 8 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. Remember not to overcrowd the air fryer, as this can affect the cooking process.
Step 4: Serving the Mozzarella Sticks
Once the mozzarella sticks are cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve the mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or any other dipping sauce of your choice.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to help you achieve perfect mozzarella sticks in an air fryer:
- Make sure the mozzarella sticks are frozen before starting the coating process.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
- Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking.
- Flip the mozzarella sticks halfway through cooking for even browning.
Conclusion
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy crispy and flavorful mozzarella sticks made in an air fryer. It’s a healthier alternative to deep frying while still achieving the same delicious results. Experiment with different seasonings or dipping sauces to customize your mozzarella sticks to your liking. Enjoy these cheesy treats as a snack, appetizer, or party food!