Easy and Delicious Mozzarella Sticks: Air Fryer Edition
Do you love mozzarella sticks but want a healthier alternative to the deep-fried version? Look no further! In this article, we’ll show you how to cook crispy and mouthwatering mozzarella sticks in an air fryer. Not only will you save on calories, but the air fryer also makes the process quick and hassle-free. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 12 mozzarella sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Take the mozzarella sticks out of the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, dried oregano, garlic powder, dried basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Place the flour in another shallow dish and the beaten eggs in a third shallow dish.
- Dip each mozzarella stick into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each stick is evenly coated.
- Place the coated mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the mozzarella sticks in batches.
- Cook the mozzarella sticks in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Flip them halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
- Once cooked, remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. This will help the cheese firm up.
- Serve the mozzarella sticks with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce or ranch dressing.
Now, you can enjoy these irresistibly cheesy mozzarella sticks, guilt-free! The air fryer’s circulating hot air ensures a crispy texture without the need for excessive amounts of oil. Whether it’s for a family gathering, game night, or simply a delicious snack, these homemade mozzarella sticks cooked in an air fryer are sure to impress everyone.
So why wait? Dust off your air fryer and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
Want to share your tips and tricks for making crispy mozzarella sticks in an air fryer? Join the discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum and let us know how your mozzarella sticks turned out!
FAQ:
Can I use frozen mozzarella sticks in an air fryer?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen mozzarella sticks in an air fryer. Just make sure to preheat the air fryer and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Frozen mozzarella sticks may require a few minutes longer to cook than fresh ones.
How do I prevent the mozzarella sticks from sticking to the air fryer basket?
To prevent the mozzarella sticks from sticking to the air fryer basket, it is recommended to lightly coat them with cooking spray or brush them with a little oil before placing them in the air fryer. This will help create a crispy outer layer and prevent any sticking issues.
What temperature should I set the air fryer to for cooking mozzarella sticks?
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps to create a crispy coating while ensuring the cheese inside the mozzarella sticks melts perfectly.
How long should I cook mozzarella sticks in an air fryer?
The cooking time for mozzarella sticks in an air fryer usually ranges from 6 to 8 minutes. However, this may vary depending on the brand of air fryer and the size of the mozzarella sticks. It is recommended to check on them after 6 minutes and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Should I flip the mozzarella sticks while cooking them in an air fryer?
It is not necessary to flip the mozzarella sticks while cooking them in an air fryer. The hot circulating air inside the fryer ensures even cooking and browning on all sides, resulting in a crispy exterior and gooey cheese center.
Can I cook homemade mozzarella sticks in an air fryer?
Absolutely! You can certainly cook homemade mozzarella sticks in an air fryer. After preparing them, follow the same cooking instructions as you would for store-bought mozzarella sticks. Just make sure they are properly breaded and frozen for a better outcome.
What should I serve with mozzarella sticks cooked in an air fryer?
Mozzarella sticks are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or another dipping sauce of your choice. Additionally, you can pair them with a side salad or some crispy french fries for a complete and satisfying meal.
Was this page helpful?
Read Next: How To Cook Frozen Beef Patties In Air Fryer
Related Articles
