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Gooey, Golden, Air-Fried Mozzarella Dreams

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Say goodbye to deep frying and hello to crispy, gooey perfection! These Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate snack, appetizer, or party favorite. Made with a golden breadcrumb crust, melted mozzarella, and just the right amount of seasoning, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional fried cheese sticks. Perfectly paired with marinara or ranch, they’re guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

Scale
  1. 8 mozzarella cheese sticks (or string cheese sticks)
  2. ½ cup all-purpose flour
  3. 2 large eggs, beaten
  4. 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  5. ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  6. 1 tsp garlic powder
  7. 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  8. 1 tsp paprika (optional)
  9. Salt and pepper to taste
  10. Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

Step 1: Freeze Cheese Sticks

  1. Unwrap the cheese sticks and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Freeze for at least 1 hour, or until solid, to prevent the cheese from melting during cooking.

Step 2: Prepare Coating Stations

  1. Set up three shallow bowls:
    • Bowl 1: Flour
    • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
    • Bowl 3: Panko, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Cheese Sticks

  1. Roll a frozen mozzarella stick in flour (shake off excess), dip it into beaten eggs, and then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  2. Place the coated stick back on the baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining sticks.

Step 4: Freeze Again

  1. Freeze the coated mozzarella sticks for an additional 10-30 minutes to help the coating stay on during air frying.

Step 5: Preheat Air Fryer

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Cook Mozzarella Sticks

  1. Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Place mozzarella sticks in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t touching. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
  3. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or ranch. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Freezing is Essential: Don’t skip the freezing steps, as they ensure the cheese doesn’t melt too quickly during cooking.
  • Customize the Seasoning: Add extra spice to the breadcrumbs, like cayenne or chili flakes, for a bolder flavor.
  • Make Ahead: These can be prepped and frozen ahead of time for quick snacks later.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://grandmarecipesflash.com/gooey-golden-air-fried-mozzarella-dreams/