Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Ingredients:

• 8 sticks mozzarella string cheese
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, whisked
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ tsp each onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt

Directions:

1. Unwrap mozzarella sticks (or cut into sticks if starting from a block of cheese). Set on a parchment-lined plate and place in the freezer for 30 minutes. 

2. Meanwhile, set up your breading station. Place flour in a Ziploc bag. Whisk egg in a shallow bowl. Combine panko and seasonings in a separate shallow bowl.

3. Toss mozzarella sticks into the bag with the flour, zip it shut, and shake to evenly coat the cheese.
4. Working one at a time, roll the mozzarella sticks in the egg, then in the panko. Return to the plate and freeze for 30 more minutes.

5. Lightly grease your air fryer basket or rack, and preheat to 390°F.
6. Freezing is extremely important so the cheese doesn’t melt before the breading crisps. Coat the mozzarella sticks in egg then panko one more time, and then transfer to the air fryer.

7. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, until crispy and golden brown. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or ranch.