Teresa's Recipes
Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Get ready to indulge in these irresistibly crispy and gooey air fryer mozzarella sticks! This delightful twist on a classic Italian-American appetizer boasts a perfectly golden-brown exterior that gives way to oozing melted mozzarella inside. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply in need of a satisfying late-night snack, these mozzarella sticks are sure to impress. Pair them with a rich and tangy marinara sauce for dipping, and embark on a delicious journey that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Historically, mozzarella sticks emerged in the United States as a beloved bar snack, inspired by Italian cuisine's love for cheese, making them a perfect comfort food for all occasions.
Ingredients
- 8 sticks (cut in half) Mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1, beaten Egg
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 cup (for dipping) Marinara sauce
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Appetizer
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 30g
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Sugar: 1g
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut each mozzarella cheese stick in half to create 16 shorter sticks.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Dip each mozzarella stick into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.
- Arrange the coated mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded for optimal cooking.
- Cook for 5 minutes, then carefully flip the sticks and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Serve the air fryer mozzarella sticks hot, accompanied by marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Consider using seasoned breadcrumbs for additional flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb process for each cheese stick.