Crispy Mozzarella Sticks
Crispy Mozzarella Sticks are made with string cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and eggs; air fry at 390°F for 8 minutes until golden with stretchy melted cheese inside.
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Method
- 1
Cut string cheese in half if desired. Freeze for at least 30 minutes — this prevents them from melting out during cooking.
- 2
Set up breading station: flour, beaten eggs, breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan.
- 3
Dredge each frozen stick: flour, egg, breadcrumbs. Double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- 4
Spray with cooking spray. Air fry at 390°F for 6-8 minutes until golden and crispy.
- 5
Serve immediately with warm marinara. Pull apart for maximum cheese stretch.
Pro tip. Freezing the cheese is non-negotiable — room temp cheese melts out before the coating crisps. Double-breading creates a thicker shell that holds better.
Why the air fryer wins here
- Ready in 8 minutes. The same dish takes about 13 in a conventional oven, plus preheating.
- Uses a fraction of the oil of deep frying, which is how this comes in at 280 calories a serving.
- Cleanup is a basket, not a sheet pan and a splattered stovetop.
Storing and reheating
Refrigerate perishable leftovers within 2 hours, or within 1 hour above 90°F. Reheat leftovers to 165°F (74°C) throughout, measured with a food thermometer. USDA leftover safety guidance.
Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To bring them back, air fry at 350°F for 2-3 minutes. Watch closely. Two minutes can separate molten from exploded. Full reheat guide for mozzarella sticks.
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